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ACEOSTICAL 
<PUN <POIlTIlJLITS 



EIGHTEEN 



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BY 

D. F. LOCKERBY. 



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!i0grartual, |ist0nnl, l^strijtitj^ ani (Jfttkgistit. 



Intended for the general Reader, Schools, Academies, Colleges, Pub- 
lic and Private Libraries. Preeminently suitable for Dec- 
la?nation on the Stage, Lyceum, Young Men's Lit- 
erary Societies, Clubs, Literary and Social 
Entertainments, and for the Home. 

.1^ "•^ 




J. L. SiBoLE, Publisher and Bookseller, 

N«. 72T SANSOM STREET. 
1876, 



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Copyright, 187b, by J. L. SIB OLE. 



g]eljati0i< 



THE WRITER RESPECTFULLY 

DEDICATES THIS 

VOLUME TO 

ALEXANDER WHILLDIN, ESQ., 

OF PHILADELPHIA. 



PREFACE 



The preparation of these sketches was first undertaken solely for 
pastime and mental recreation, without any view to their publica- 
tion. After a number of the acrostics had been written, it was my 
pleasure to read them, on various occasions, to several literary friends 
for mutual amusement ; each, in turn, suggested their publication. 
After repeated and urgent solicitations on their part, I determined 
to submit them to the test of impartial, and in all other respects 
qualified criticism, thinking that the result of this course would pre- 
clude their publication. On the contrary, however, the opposite 
course was recommended, and, accordingly, I now humbly offer 
them to the public for their perusal. If I shall succeed in instruct- 
ing a single person, or of interesting any in the history of their 
country, much more, of pleasing any considerable portion of the 
world of readers, I shall be more than gratified. 

I am indebted to the following authors, whose pages I consulted 
in selecting material in the preparing of these sketches: Portrait 
Gallery of Eminent Men op the United States, Guernsey's 
United States, Bartlett^s Life of Lincoln, Headley's Life 
OF Grant, Barret's Life of Lincoln. 

It is not all poetry that is found in books, nor is all the poetry 
found in books all the poetry extant : far from it. There is a 
poetry of life, a poetry of art, a poetry of nature. Hoping that the 
reader may find some poetry at least, in the Pen Portraits, and 
more of nature and less of art, I respectfully invite your attention 
to the Introduction. AUTHOR. 

(V) 



INTRODUCTION 



It is the author's aim in these brief sketches to provide for the 
reader a bird's-eye view of the life of each President, and of the 
times in which they severally moved on the stage of human action, 
amid the mighty activities of a great uprising nation— a view of the 
century in the most thoroughly condensed form. It is attempted to 
give a summary of the leading features which characterize the life 
of each of the Presidents, and notice the momentous events which 
occurred during the administration of each. To take in, by a single 
sweep of the horizon with our little lens, the first century of our 
national existence ; its wonderful progress, and the changes which 
mark and make it ever memorable. Conspicuous among these arc 
the stupendous acts of the Revolution, the war of 1813, and the late 
"Great Rebellion," out of which have been evolved the results 
which have formed a great and mighty nation. My perusal of the 
life of each President has proved both interesting and profitable, and 
if this volume shall induce any young man, who has not already 
done so, thoroughly to peruse the lives of our Presidents, it will 
accomplish a most important end. They are to be found in every 
public library and book-store in the land, and the time spent in their 
perusal is time well spent. The history of our race can furnish no 
grander illustrations of how men may rise out of the deepest poverty 
and obscurity, contending successfully against the most formidable 
difficulties, to the loftiest height of human attainment. In other 
words, how men by indomitable energy, untiring industry, and 
indefatigable perseverance, may rise to immortal fame and wield 
the widest influence, illustrating Sir Isaae Newton's idea of genius. 

(Yii) 



Vlll INTRODUCTION. 

Of our eighteen Presidents, eight enjoyed the advantages of early 
culture and of comparative aflfluence. Of the remaining ten, six 
were born of penury, four medium. Five were college graduates. 
Eleven were professional lawyers, five from military life, two rose 
mainly through a political career. Fifteen were elected, and three 
succeeded from the Vice-Presidency to the Presidential chair. 

Seven were bom in Virginia. 
Two in North Carolina. 
Two in Massachusetts. 
One in South Carolina. 
Two in New York. 
One in New Hampshire. 
One in Pennsylvania. 
One in Kentucky. 
One in Ohio. 

Throughout I have aimed to be strictly impartial and candid in 
the presentment of each. The reason why some of the sketches are 
longer than others is obvious, because there are more events of great 
moment crowded into the life of some than of others. It must be 
confessed that Washington, Jackson, Lincoln and Grant stand out 
more conspicuously on the face of our national history than any of 
the others. They were, by the nature of circumstances and exigen- 
cies of the times, when summoned to the front, when every moment 
was crowded by great events, made to occupy, emphatically, periods 
to be called crises in the national life — to guide the ship of State in 
the midst of events which affected her most vital interests, if not in 
each instance, the perpetuity of the nation herself. Hoping that 
these sketches may be acceptable to the reader, and this attempt to 
do honor to the memory of our distinguished Presidents, and to pro- 
vide a fitting memorial of the One Hundredth Anniversaiy of the In 
dependence of the United States of America, may not be in vain ; 
and that the Pen Portraits may become a favorite gift-book by all 



INTRODUCTION. IX 

who love our free and glorious country — which fathers and mothers 
will delight to bestow on their sons as the birthday or holiday pres- 
ent, inspiring in their young breasts the same glorious spirit of 
Washington, determining them to preserve forever that freedom 
which he and the fathers of our country have bequeathed us ; and 
that emulating their example, they may be induced to imitate their 
virtues, and, like them, rise to positions of distinction and honor, is . 

the earnest desire of the 

AUTHOR;. 

Philadelphia, September Istf 1876. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON 



Bridge's Creek, Potomac, Westmoreland County, Virginia. Father 
of his Country. The .great Military Champion of American In- 
dependence. First President of the United States. The First in 
War, and First in Peace, and First in the Hearts of the People, 
always. 

Born, Feb. 22, 1732. Died, Dec. 14, 1790. 



G reat, consecrated and immortal name, 
E mblem of glory, honor, truth and fame, 

'er all his fellows — see ! he grandly towers, 
R ising amid the great — excels their powers. 
G reat his designs in time of war or peace, 

E nlisted wholly, solely, for the Land's increase. 

Within his own great and prophetic heart, 

A nation is equipped in every part. 

S ee ! when the hour to strike for Freedom comes, 

H e draws his sword ; and first among the sons, 

1 mmortal sons of glory, takes his place. 

N ations admire, kings rush to his embrace. 
G reatest of all the nations forth is brought, 
T he new-born nation Washington had sought 
O 'er the broad continent he casts his eye, 
N ow free forever — he is free to die. 

(3) 



PEN PORTRAITS. 

B orn of old English stock of noble fame, 

R anks high his family and ancestral name. 

I n early years his father dies, and he 

D epends on mother, what his life shall be. 

Greatest of blessings is a mother good, 

E arly to feed the soul with wholesome food : 

S he as a mother without equal stood. 

C areful, she taught him every wise behest ; 

R eligious precepts — the purest and the best. 

E arly to school she sent her son, 'tis true — 

E ach school day course, her course did far out-do. 

K Ind-hearted youth — yet wore a front of iron 

P uts not away the lovely, witching siren, 
O f rules for conduct had a hundred fold 
T o guide, to fashion, every thought to mould. 
O f books, the Bible and Sir Matthew Hale 
M ade his first study ; these o'er all prevail. 
A n expert was in mathematics, too, 
C lassical colleges he never knew. 

When sixteen years of age, his school days end, 
E arly in life to business must attend. 
S o trained in virtue, famed for love of truth, 
'T is his to form the model son and youth. 
M odest and mighty, he grew up a man 
O f noblest purpose, both to act and plan, 
R ich in the noblest feelings of a manly heart, 
E ver he acts a great and noble part. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

L ike Joseph, David, Daniel, who of old 

A re seen to shine like stars of purest gold. 

N or can we rank less worthy him to-day, 

D eep in whose heart the same high motives sway. 

C areful that saintly mother taught her son : 

f all her work this wast most carefully done. 
U nconsciously she trained a leader great, 

N or dreams she that a President he'll make ; 
T o her great joy, she lives to see the day 

Y oung George, her son, this honor bore away. 

V irginia's hills and vales surveyed, and solved 

1 ntricate problems which estates involved. 
R emiss to duty — he was never charged, 
G enial to all, his heart and mind enlarged. 
I n unity, he with his brother dwelt, 

N o discord marred the joy these brothers felt. 
I nduced was he to seek a naval fame, 
A s oft his brother had advised the same. 

F ortune decided otherwise, for he 
A mother's counsel heeded, as we see 
T he British navy lost a good recruit, 
H alf of a continent this from Britain took. 
E 'en now the seed is cast within the field, 
R ising in glory will a nation yield. 



6 PEN PORTRAITS. 

*er mountain heights, through valleys, and o'er plains, 
F airfax, his friend, with George delights to range. 

H ark ! in the West the din of war we hear, 

1 ndians with French 'gainst Britain's power appear. 
S elected by Dinwiddie to convey 

C ross mountain wilds, o'er pathless miles away, 

ne single message to the French commander, 
U naw'd he undertakes this toil of grandeur, 

N or goes in vain — selects the best location 
T o rear his future forts, by observation. 
R aised for the frontier are three hundred men, 
Y oung George, Lieutenant Colonel, over them. 

T he brave young colonel, with but part his troops, 
H as gone to see how frontier service looks. 
E re his arrival hostile French again 

G reat Britain's power would scornfully disdain. 

R eady for action under Jummonville, 

E nlisted for a fight, he sets his will. 

A skirmish, that is all, he routs the foe, 

T o flight they're put ; their leader lying low. 

M idst these fatigues, the first commander dies 

1 n Washington, command-in-chief relies. 

L acking no part that makes a chieftain true. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

I ncreased his army with fresh troops we view, 
'T is his to march his force to Fort Duquesne, 
A nd there attack the strong French garrison. 
R etreat from this, he finds his only course, 
Y ields he to numbers, in far superior force. 

C omes back and halts at Fort Necessity, 

H is gallantry displays and bravery. 

A ttacked by French and Indian forces strong, 

M atches his far inferior numbers long, 

P lants himself in the front line of the fight, 

I n action fearless leads, with dauntless might. 

O 'ercome by numbers superior to his own, 

N ow yields the fort ; in bravery yields to none. 

Id England now her bravest general sends, 
F rench troops to banish from her soil intends. 

A grand display — Virginia's rangers come, 

M arshalled with regulars ; Braddock and Washington 

E agerly take the field for Fort Duquesne. 

R anked next to Braddock, Washington is seen. 

1 ndifferent to the crafty Indian's guile, 

C areless is Braddock, thinking of no wile, 

A n Indian ambuscade he feareth not, 

N or will he learn, by Washington though taught. 

I ndians behind the trees now lie in wait, 

N or will he know till they have sealed his fate. 



8 PEN PORTRAITS, 

D ashing forward, his men he leads in pride, 

E ntering the forest — now from every side 

P ouring volley on volley, Braddock he falls dead. 

E ach tree an Indian hides ; the woods run red. 

N othing is left for them that now survive, 

D efeated thus by such a dire surprise, 

E xcept retreat — the best that they can do ; 

N o other course for them is left in view. 

C rafty the Indian tried, and tried in vain, 

E ach deadly shot for Washington took aim. 

A t his brave heart leveled each musket shot, 
N ow, e'en his coat these bullets entered not. 
D etermined now, the French troops they must rout 

F orbes. Brigadier General, is sent out ; 

I nstructed, goes to capture Fort Duquesne. 

R eturn they did not, Forbes and Washington, 

S weeping before them every barrier down, 

T ill no French fort in all the West is found. 

P lace Washington, of heroes, first among ; 

R eared thus a warrior, when the pressure comes, 

E xacting taxes from Columbia's sons — 

S ad error, which by Parliament was made, 

I nduced the colonies a war to wage. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

D eep in the heart of Washington there grew 
E ternal principles of justice true. 
N ow Patrick Henry by his heart appeals 
T his heart can pierce, which quivering feels, 

ne, quick the other, flies each fiery shaft 

F ast through the heart, where leaden shot ne'er pass'd. 

"To arms ! " the cry resounds all o'er the land, 
H ear soon the clash of arms on every hand. 
E 'en now at Boston and at Lexington, 

U nwilling warfare has ere this begun. 

N ow all convened in solemn conclave met, 

1 n awful firm resolve each man is set. 

T he conscript fathers, there did dare to rise, 

E 'en though darkness deep should lower the skies, 

D etermined they, for Independence swore, 

S igned, sealed, proclaimed their purpose evermore. 

T o Washington, the Congress wisely gave 

A place, the highest, and the country save. 

T o bring his country quick and sure relief, 

E xalted is to the command-in-chief, 

S aves the whole nation, and defeats her foes. 

F irmly upon his purpose bent he goes 
I n rapid marches to Boston, makes his way 
R eady, all things prepares, as best he may. 
S everely taxed, amid such vast confusion, 
T is his to rid the place of Howe's intrusion. 



10 PEN PORTRAITS. 

I ncessant toil, all through the hours of night, 
N ow Dorchester, he fortifies her heights ; 

When suddenly the British troops embark 
A 11 trace of whom is gone before 'tis dark. 
R edoubled force the British bring to bear 

A round New York ; they're bound to triumph there. 
N ow poorly clad, his army bare and small, 
D ares Washington, with new recruits and all, 

F orward to march, this stronghold to defend, 

I n face of all that Britain Great may send. 

R egardless of her war ships, soldiers brave 

S ee Washington intent New York to save. 

They land their troops, the ships command the shore. 

I mpending ruin for raw recruits in store, 
N ot able to contend, he bears defeat. 

P laces his men, wise course, in full retreat ; 
E mbarks his troops 'neath cover of the night 
A rrives in New York safe, the foe in sight. 
C ross o'er he must, and in New Jersey come, 
E ach moment counts, as flying soldiers run. 

A series of disasters and defeat 

N ow mark his course — his only hope retreat ; 

D epressed and starving soldiers now desert, 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. ll 

F ears and distress bear down on every heart. 
I n no respect is Washington dismayed, 
R esolute, sends to Congress for fresh aid ; 
S ecures, for soldiers, rations and fair pay, 
T asks his brave heart by night as well by day. 

I n winter storms, harassed upon the rear, 
N ights cold and stormy and no shelter near. 

T o Trenton comes, but dare not spend the night, 
H e must continue still his pressing flight. 
E mbarks his troops at night. The Delaware 

H igh, rapid, full of ice floes now must bear 
E ach almost naked soldier on her breast ; 
A bloody foe is in the rear — no rest 
R emains this side, the dark and turgid stream, 
'T is life or death for them to choose between. 
S tay here and die — go o'er the stream and live. 

O f choice, the latter they prefer ; and give, 
F earless of danger in the darkling night, 

T hemselves to grapple with the water's might. 
H eaven smiles o'er them ; and God's angels keep 
E ach soldier safe — ^borne o'er the swelling deep — 

P ure angel bands these vigils ever keep. 
E nforcements now from Philadelphia come 
O f noblest men — the father and the son. 



12 PEN PORTRAITS. 

P leasing to see, New Jersey sends her share, 

L ifting from Washington a load of care. 

E re morn will dawn, the tide of war will turn, 

A nd Lord Cornwallis will in anger burn. 
L et George alone — no greater general born ; 
With dextrous move Cornwallis will be shorn, 
A nd haughty British troops will yet retreat, 
Y ielding before our troops will bear defeat. 
S oon they will break and run on " flying feet." 



-:o:- 



Eager to turn the tide of fortune, makes resolve 
The river to recross, the question solve 
Whether for him there's better things in store, 
Or whether he's doomed and Freedom evermore. 
These were the problems now pressed on his soul, 
His every thought and action to control. 



-:o:- 



WASHINGTON'S SOLILOQUY. 

The night had grown dark as Washington wondered. 

The wind shrieked aloud, while it lightened and thundered. 

The sky was o'ercast with a terrible gloom, 

Death haunted his soul, and a terrible doom. 

He thought of his soldiers by the foe far outnumbered. 

Of his country in bondage, beleaguered and plundered. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 13 

He thought of his chains forged heavy and strong, 
Of his country's contempt, injustice and wrong. 
He resolves, all his might, in one single blow, 
To summon and level the merciless foe. 
To God he appeals, and his soldiers so brave, 
His arm now to strengthen, his country to save. 



:o:- 



WASHINGTON RECROSSING THE DELAWARE. 

Battle of White Plains, Trenton, N. J. 

'Twas a dark, chilly night, in the month of December, 

This scene was enacted, with pride WQ remember. 

On the Delaware shore, at the dusk of the day, 

George Washington stood clad in battle array. 

Saddled and bridled, his war-horse near by, 

His own stately form you can scarcely descry 

Through the shadows of night which have gathered around. 

While dark, angry clouds in the heavens have frowned. 

The rumbling of wagons, the trampling of feet. 

Orders given In haste as the officers meet. 

The dark sullen torrent which swiftly rolls by, 

'Neath the thick gathering gloom of a dark, angry sky, 

Gusts of wind sweeping over the hard, frozen ground. 

All conspired to produce a strange, confused sound. 

See ! how silent he stands, like a watchman on guard : 
His countenance solemn he speaks scarce a word. 
Inexpressible majesty steals over his face, 



1.4 PEN PORTRAITS. 

In his heart a great purpose, on his features you trace. 

Ere the sunlight of morn shall in splendor appear, 

The fate of his soldiers, now quivering in fear, 

Shall forever be fixed, and the sun shall look down 

On a nation made free, or forever undone ; 

Sunk deeper in ruin or saved from its power. 

All crowded the moments of this night's solemn hour. 

But hark ! it is Washington. What does he cry'? 

" Launch the boats once again — storm and darkness defy." 

Mid the darkness and ice floes far out in the stream. 

Now struggling and toiling his boatsmen are seen. 

'Bove the roar of the waters, the ice crashing by. 

Hear the word of command by the winds borne on high. 

The boats are now driven and riven apart, 

But steadfast and firm is the great chieftain's heart. 

Forced forward and backward, mid the terrible gloom, 

'Twould seem they were nearing a terrible doom ; 

But listen ! Hark ! there is heard from the opposite shore, 

A voice. Is it friendly ? yes. It is Knox evermore. 

What means he ? thro' the darkness, say why does he shout 

With stentorian voice ? To remove every doubt 

From our men steering now through the darkness of night. 

This is the reason why he shouts in his might. 

But still on the shore the chieftain stands calm ; 
All night long he waits there, these waters to scan, 
Nov/ so troubled and dark — his men urging on. 
Both famished and weary, as the night rolls along. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 15 

The chieftain and soldiers have all gained the shore, 

Ere the dawning of day — the river's passed o'er. 

The columns have formed and are moving in line 

To Trenton they're bound — who the end will divine ? 

By two separate ways to the city they come, 

A storm beating down, ere the onset's begun. 

The chieftain in front, where the musketry pour 

Their volleys of death, mid noise and uproar. 

Our columns advance, strike with terror the foe, 

Who to rally their forces now rush to and fro. 

They're surprised and confounded — astounded to see 

Our men dashing forward, victorious to be. 

As our columns advance, they face a mad storm 

Of hail beating down on each soldier's brave form,. 

Clothes soaked with wet ; guns unfit for use — 

What is to be done? "Advance!" "Charge!" onward 

they push. 
Now nearing the picket — " Be unlimbered the guns !" 
"Advance to the charge !" See, the picket guard runs. 
The storm beating madly the chieftain heeds not. 
His countenance is firm, amid hail, fire and shot. 
His great purpose of soul, unalterably made. 
He'll execute now, or in death he'll be laid. 
The cannon's loud thunder through the storm is now heard, 
Sullivan fires, and now Stark with the advance guard, 
Dashing forward, already have gained the street, 
Flying Hessians, divided, they everywhere meet. 



16 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Around Washington's stately, magnificent form, 
Curls artillery smoke, like a robe to adorn. 
While he calmly directs where his men shall attack. 
Leads on his brave troops as the Hessians fall back. 

Now direct in the front of Washington's column 

They have wheeled in the street two thundering cannon. 

But two dauntless young captains, one is Monroe 

Charge — up to the very muzzle of the guns they go. 

With their men they charge — and take them in time 

Ere their volume of death has swept down the line. 

As the match now descends they dash it away. 

And the chieftain's brave column know not even delay. 

The chieftain in danger is safe once again ; 

Each moment discloses some advantage they gain. 

Mid direful confusion — apalling the sound 

Their officers, soldiers, are everywhere found 

Flying in haste and o'erwhelmed with fear. 

As our soldiers triumphant, on all sides appear. 

What trampling of horsemen — what cries rend the air. 

The cause of Cornwallis is now in despair. 

At the voice of the chieftain the troops sweep along. 
His command still is given " Forward ! press on." 
Strikes the foe with dismay ; who, secure in their pride. 
Are routed and flying ; pressed on every side. 
Our men still advance, bearing down every foe, 
Swift to glory and victory, onward they go. 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 17 

The foe being routed, tlielr flags they have struck. 
At a gallop comes Washington dashing up, 
Exclaiming in pride, as his war-horse leaps past, 
AVhIle his heart bounds for Liberty high and fast : 
" This is for our country a glorious day," 
While victory and glory he now bears away. 



'Twas Liberty he saw within the balance laid ; 

For Liberty he watched, and fought, and prayed. 

This was the spell that held him in the darkest hour, 

That nerved him with resistless, deathless power. 

This was the beacon-light to which he steered through storm. 

When tossed on troublous seas — 'mid angry billows borne. 

This was the hope which, like an anchor firm and sure. 

Fast held him at his post — want and fatigue endure ; 

This was the ray which fell across his darkling way, 

And told him of a coming glorious day, 

When the heavens without a cloud in view, 

The sun of Liberty would shine in splendor true ; 

This Liberty he did secure, and he a nation made 

Ere he his sword withdrew, or once the conflict staid. 

He bore his country's banner safely through the storra 

Of many a bloody battle — rent and torn ; 

Till, proudly streaming, he lifts it to the skies. 

And foreign rule and power triumphantly defies. 

Surrender comes at last — Great Britain yields the day, 



18 PEN PORTRAITS. 

The chieftain of America has borne the palm away. 

Rejoicing milHons shout, the air is rent with joy, 

No longer wasting war our noblest sons destroy. 

The stars and stripes now proudly wave on high, 

O'er Washington who looks with grateful glistening eye. 

A grateful nation rally round the conqueror's feet, 

And proudly bear him to the Presidential seat ; 

He sheathes his sword — the art of peace pursues, 

His share of toil he will not now refuse 

A great Republic to construct, to mould and form. 

Which, like himself, will history's page adorn. 

This glorious work well done, his end draws near. 

Calm and composed meets death without a fear. 

He says to those around him, " I am soon to die, 

" I'm not afraid, for well prepared am I." 

His peace was made with God, and angel bands draw nigh, 

His heart has ceased to beat, his soul has soared on high, 

These angel spirits came, a glorious happy band, 

And safe conveyed his soul to freedom's happy land. 

Where liberty, with glorious and effulgent ray, 

Is theirs who fight the fight of faith and win the day. 



JOHN ADAMS. 19 



JOHN ADAMS. 



Second President. The Champion Orator of the First Continental 
Congress. 
Born, Oct. 30, 1735. Died, July 4, 1826 



J ustice forbids that moral man should claim 

f power sufficient to portray this name ; 

H e was the scholar, speaker, writer most profound, 
N or as a reasoner was his rival found. 

A God-like dignity with manly grace, 

D etermined energy in time find place ; 

A genius of the highest type had he, 

M ade bright by us, as polished steel could be. 

S ee, at the bar first youthful Adam^s stands, 

Q uick as the hghtning every will commands. 
U ncommon eloquence, resistless power, 

1 n rapid strides gains fame's highest tower ; 
N ext, see him in the Legislative Hall, 

C an he refuse the people's urgent call ? 

Y earning to serve and save his country ; lo ! 



20 PEN PORTRAITS. 

M ark well, what noble deeds his records show, 

A Continental Congress now convenes ; 

S uch men compose it, and amid such scenes 

S carce mighty men and conscript fathers came, 

A nd formed a congress for " immortal " fame. 

C laiming the right superior merit gives, 

H e takes the front rank place and congress lives. 

U nawed by fear, when boldest spirits cower, 

S ee Adams rise, and as by magic power, 

E loquence bursting from his soul, revives 

T heir sinking hearts, and in their might they rise ; 

T he noble stand, the glorious oath each swore, 

S igned, sealed and damned oppression evermore. 



-:o:- 



With honor to himself, in blessing to the land 
Four years John Adams wisely did command 
The ship of state ; and on towards the goal 
Of fame and glory did her cause control. 
He lived for many years with pride to see 
The vast achievements of the brave and free. 
July the Fourth — the nation's natal day 
In eighteen twenty six he passed away. 
This champion son of glory died in peace, 
Grateful to God for all the vast increase 
Of the young nation he helped so well to place 
Upon the list of powers whose history grace 



JOHN ADAMS. 21 

The annals of the past ; her future how to trace 

In lines of light and beauty as you gaze 

Into the untried path and unknown maze 

Of glorious achievement and of fame, 

Which cluster now around the rising name 

Of this Republic upon her voyage now 

Of Liberty ; who, dashing from her noble prow, 

The foaming but defeated waves, still glides 

Cutting her pathway ; and from her lofty sides, 

Bids calm defiance to her vanquished foes. 

And smiles serene composure, as she goes 

Steadily forward upon her glorious course. 

Relying upon her own inherent force. 

And on Jehovah, who victory gave her arms 

Whoever will and now all foes disarms 

Who strike at Liberty the death blow, and who fight 

Against the cause of Justice, Freedom, Right. 



-:o: 



22 PEN PORTRAITS. 



THOMAS JEFFERSON 



Third President. Author of the Declaration of Independence. 
[743. Died July 4, 1826. 



r o thee, the tribute of great learning must be paid. 

H igh is thy path 'mid ranks of sages made. 

O f all, among the writers of thy day, 

M ore brilliant pen than thine, none e'er could sway. 

A ccomplished and refined, imbued with grace 

S tatesman by nature — for the highest place. 

J efferson when he would the mind persuade, 

E mployed the Grecian grace of Grecian sage. 

F irm as the rocks of adamant or steel 

F or liberty and for his country's weal. 

E merging quick from walks of student life, 

R ising for Liberty, joins the Revolution's strife. 

S trikes hands with Adams and the future scans 

O f present needs and future wisely plans. 

1 1 ow when the eventful hour for Freedom comes, 

S o full of honor for Columbia's sons, 

n e frames the charter of the people's rights 

A nd pen in hand he walks immortal heights. 

D istinguished at the bar, in Congress wields a power 



THOMAS JEFFERSON. 23 

Which saves the country in her travail hour. 
E xcelled by none he as a writer strove, 
L eaving for dead, who'd dare his pen oppose; 
L ifting away the load of fear and shame ; 

V ersing the people who would freedom claim, 
I n all the mysteries of Great Principles, 
R e-making men made them invincibles. 
G irding around him his robe of peace or war, 
I ntent for freedom, east and west afar, 
N e'er falter'd, but the Declaration framed, 
I n which forever, the nation's fame or shame 
A 11 centred, Jefferson won this proud fame. 



-:o'- 



Twice President this nobleman of nature stood 

The honored champion, for the nation's good. 

Directing with accustomed wisdom, he 

Eight years presided o'er the young Republic free 

Laying a sure foundation, broad and grand, 

On which, forever, these commonwealths should stand. 

And like his compeer, Adams, so is he 

Privileged to live, the nations growth to see. 

From out of childhood into strength and power, 

Till, giant-like, these States' united tower. 

Through many years, like Adams, draws his age 

The champion patriot — venerable sage. 

And in his own Virginian home away. 

Retired from mortal conflicts many a day, 



24 PEN PORTRAITS. 

He laid him down in peace and gently died 

The country's glory, ornament and pride. 

With Adams side by side for Liberty he fought, 

At first together, then apart, each sought 

Not their own good, but for their country's, they 

Endeavored each the palm to bear away. 

And strange coincidence, the self-same hour and day. 

From earth to heaven, these champions passed away 

From mortal life, to reunite again. 

The nation's loss, their own eternal gain. 

Forever to join hands amid the hosts made free, 

Who pluck and eat the fruit of life immortal's tree. 

What tranquil happiness must his have been 

Ere he had closed his eyes upon this earthly scene, 

To see a nation raised — a country trained 

Beneath that charter which his own great wisdom framed 

To look abroad when tested well by time 

And see this instrument inscribed, as though divine, 

The nation's bulwark still their boast and pride ; 

The Declaration, which was the star to guide 

The noble sons of freedom through the storm 

Which burst and spent its fury, ere the morn 

Of liberty and national glory dawned 

And hushed the wild and angry deep that yawned 

To swallow up, and 'neath its darkling wave 

For liberty to find a deep and dreadful grave. 



JAMES MADISON. 25 



JAMES MADISON, 



The Fourth President, the Champion of the War of 1812, and the_ 
National Architect. 

Born March 16, 1751. Died June 28, 1836.. 



J ust at a time when prudent toil the nation needs — 
A time which, Hke a crucible, men's souls did try, 
M adison, from Princeton College, like an arrow speeds, 
E ager to aid the young Republic to defy 
S imple or complex forces, invisible or seen, 

M aking no more the problem of the national life 
A question of doubt or fear, forever puts between 
D ear blood-bought liberty and death an end of strife. 
I nstructed well he leaves his Alma Mater, 
S chooled by the patriot scholar, Witherspoon. 
O f modest mien, but with a genius bright, 
N o orator, but like the full orbed sun at noon, 

P oured forth his quiet but grand and powerful light. 
O n every plain of public service hard he toiled, 
R anking by merit first among the foremost minds 
T o counsel wisely, since tyrants have been foiled. 



26 PEN PORTRAITS. 

R edeems the country which in party chaos finds. 

ft treaties made, in all great wisdom he displayed ; 
Y ielding a noble service to construct and build 

A government, though free, can never be decayed. 
L et history tell with valor how his soul was filled. 

Valiantly through the war of eighteen twelve he led, 

1 nspiring with confidence the public mind, 

R outed the foe, and freedom's sons no longer bled. 
G enial and great in all that makes a gentleman, 
I n manners polished, and in conversation shone, 
N ever aside from virtue formed a single plan, 
I nclined to tread an onward, upward path the same, 
A path that leads to glory and immortal fame. 

Two terms elected filled the Presidential chair, 
The model both of honest toil and prudent care. 
Lived to old age — and now the vast machine 
Of a new national code is smoothly seen 
To run in harmony each part with part 
Which to achieve — the one great purpose of his heart- 
He planned and toiled, and watched and prayed, 
And realized ere cold in death was laid. 
Arranged in order, 'neath his wise control 
Was every part in one harmonious whole, 
Of the fabric vast of a Republic free. 
So massive, solid, destroyed can never be. 



JAMES MONROE. 27 

He was the architect who reared that fabric high, 
A national temple towering to the sky. 
His work on earth w^ell done, he passed away 
To God's great temple and eternal day. 

:o: 



JAMES MONROE. 



The Fifth President and the Great Diplomatist. 
Born April 2, 1759. Died July 4, 1831. 



J udgment was thine above the common lot of man, 

A s soldier, barrister, to act, advise or plan, 

i\I id legislative strife or international brawls, 

E ast, north and south, in councils or in congress halls, 

S howed a capacious mind wherever duty calls. 

M onroe among diplomatists may claim to be 
O f all of them, for forethought, rare 'mong men to see, 
N e'er turning from the ardent purpose of his soul, 
R educes Spain, and France, and Britain to control. 
O f all men none could better, abler plead the cause 
E spous'd by him, his nation and his country's laws. 

Withholding not himself, his fortune and his all, 
E ver was ready to obey his country's call. 
S ent to the courts of kings to grapple foreign power, 
T his statesman won the brightest laurels of the hour. 



28 PEN PORTRAITS. 

M ade President, he labors for the country's growth, 

pens the way for progress, no premium puts on sloth. 
R ivets the ties of mutual love among the states, 

E very discordant element away he takes. 
L eavens the nation o'er with harmony and peace, 
A nd sees on every hand prosperity increase. 
N e'er falls his approbation to bestow on all 
D etermined well for liberty to rise or fall. 

Versed well in diplomatic arts and arts of war, 

1 n acts of peace his motto was " Excelsior." 

R ipe for his rest in glory lays his burdens down, 

G oing from earth to God to wear a golden crown. 

I n all things he the path of duty and of virtue trod. 

N o other path can lead to glory and to God. 

I n social scenes was blessed — domestic strifes had none, 

A n angel wife was she whose heart Monroe had won. 



-:o:- 



JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, 



The Sixth President and the National BrilHant. 
Born, July ii, 1767. Died, February 23, 1848. 

J ustly may friends of learning, literature and state 
O f thee be proud, accomplished, eloquent and great, 
H e never lead a boyhood life, but born a man — 
N oblest manhood in him shaped her mighty plan. 



JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. 29 

Q uickened by early culture and the times, 
U nrlvaled his great intellect all glowing shines. 
I ncessant application knowledge added more— 
N one may but marvel at its rich and varied store. 
C lothing himself in glory, flashing out the light, 
Y ea, like an eagle soaring, wings his lofty flight. 

A dmiration he commands whene'er, wherever seen, 
D arting the light of thought like Sol's meridian beam 
A thwart the zenith, though lit with many a star, 
M akes the whole canopy from east and west afar 
S unlit— out-dazzling all that shone, as lesser lights, 

B ears off the palm, brilliant o'er all, 'mid starry heights. 

R eliant, independent, bold, courageous, free,^ 

A master spirit, ''Sans mens in sano corpore T 

I n public offices of almost every grade 

N obly he served and well; prosperous his country made. 

T o Britain and to continental Europe he 

R epaired when young, their cities, colleges to see. 

Eager to store his mind with learning most profound, 

E ach avenue of thought his active spirit found. 

M oulded and fashioned thus, he President became, 
A nd none e'er better graced the Presidential name. 
S erene in temper, and religion in his soul, 
S elf-love and avarice his heart did ne'er control. 
A dvanced to old age, the brilliant meteor dies— 



30 PEN PORTRAITS. 

C an blaze no longer ; this the lamp of life denies. 

H is mighty spirit's gone, and let him now be laid 

U nder a cypress tree, Demosthenes beside. 

S udden his brilliant course was ended, and he said, 

E re he expired and rested among sainted dead, 

"T his is the last of earth, and I'm content to die." 

T he lofty spirit free, ascends its native sky, 

S till brighter to shine on in brighter realms on high. 



-:o:- 



ANDREW JACKSON. 



The Seventh President, and the Hero of the whole war period, and 

the connecting hnk between the old and new phases 

of our political life. 

Born March 15, 1767. Died June 8, 1845. 



A rude pioneer from the wilderness see, 

N o pretensions of birth — born a hero is he. 

D escended from parents of good Irish stock, 

R iches they had none, scant the store they brought. 

E re his advent on earth his father has died, 

W ith a mother alone, for his wants to provide. 

J aded by toiling, by scant poverty worn, 

A life of hard labor, she toils on a farm : 

C aring more for her son than all else beside, 

K ept him ever before her, her joy and her pride ; 



ANDREW JACKSON. 31 

S ent him to school, such an one as was there, 

O nly hoping some day better things he might share. 

N ow this good mother hoped that a preacher might she 

W Ithout any doubt have young hopeful to be ; 

A thing very like, had not war intervened, 

'X eluding forever what so probable seemed. 

H e heard how Prevost was destroying the land, 

A nd how South Carolina by invasion was dam'd, 

W hen Charleston had fallen, when Waxhaw had bled, 

S treaming with blood, the whole country ran red ; 

E ven up to the home of young Jackson they came, 

T urning to death man and woman the same, 

T ill they came to the place of our young hero's home, 

L etting no one escape, these invaders did roam. 

E ager to roll back the tide wave of war, 

M arching troops he now followed from near and afar ; 

E ven goes to the front, to Sumter's attack, 

N or fails to enlist — he a soldier comes back. 

T ory and Whig in the Carolinas fought, 

T o ruin each other both parties now sought ; 

W ith invaders without and bloodshed within, 

E ager for country he boldly goes in. 

L ad, though he was, like young David was brave, 

V alor as great to this hero God gave. 

E ntrapped by the foe and captured was he. 



32 PEN PORTRAITS. 

M ost nobly from cowardice showed himself free. 
I nsolent, haughty British officer said 
"Little Jack black my boots" — but Jackson replied 
"E ntitled to rights as a prisoner of war I 

C annot and will not and do not comply." 
R aising his sword he dealt him a blow 
E njolning the youth how far he might go. 
E ntombed as it were in a grave of a prison, 
K ept hungry and cold, almost frantic Is driven. 

C ontagion is near him, no physic or care — 
A nd wounded severely In Camden lies there, 
T aken out of the dungeon, his brother and he, 
A mother to meet them, how melting to see, 
W eary with travel — her two boys once more, 
B are-footed she came to the prison house door — 
A round them to throw a fond mother's care, 

U nwllling they longer prison walls should share, 
N ow horrified she at the harrowing sight, 
I nstantly home with her boys takes her flight. 
O n horseback for forty long desert miles moves, 
N ow Andrew walk'd without hat, jacket or shoes. 



ANDREW JACKSON. 33 

C hilly, merciless, drenching rain storm descends 

O n their ill fated heads whom courage defends. 

U nable this mother to rest at her home, 

N ow to Charleston with help for prisoners is gone, 

T oiling for others, as a martyr she dies ; 

Y oung Andrew the orphan on a sick bed he lies. 

N o one could ever this hero assail, 

O r any indignity give and prevail ; 

R uined in fortune, homeless and lone, 

T o shelter and love him, there's not anyone. 

H e teaches a school, with authority, he 

C an make the young urchins attentive to be. 

A t the age of eighteen a student of law 

R anks our young hero, tall, thin, lank and raw ; 

nee a lawyer, then he's a merchant in trade, 
L eaves practice of law, he's a constable made. 

1 n due time again over young Tennessee, 

N ow he's called by the state her attorney to be. 
A journey to Nashville, both perilous and long, 

T his bold fearless lawyer sets forth hale and strong, 

H e succeeded in business, won an estate, 

E nters now on the duties of Nation and State. 



04 PEN PORTRAITS. 

H e marries a charming young lady at sight, 

E ngaging to marry, though a duel must fight. 

R epresentative first to Congress he comes, 

O f the State Tennessee — when a state she becomes. 

O f resolute, fiery and dominant will, 
F or two terms a senator's chair did fill. 

T hen chosen a judge by the state Legislature, 
H e fills it six years with wondrous good nature. 
E xerting an influence peculiar, his own, 

R end'ring justice to all, who their sins must atone. 

E ngaged in many a duel and feud, 

V anquished was never by learned or rude. 

ur fi'ontiers fi'om Indian butchery saved, 
L oyal to Union, fierce invaders outbraved. 
U nequaled in valor — a hero renowned, 

T his general immortal with glory was crowned. 

1 ntent to see Union, opposed party strife, 

f a Southern war foretold would be rife, 
N o President led such a wondrous life. 

P assed through a life of activity great, 

E vening shadows now fall — Heaven's messengers wait, 

R etiring from scenes of conflict and toil, 

1 n retirement seeks peace from public turmoil. 
O Id age now upon him, at seventy eight — 

D eath calls him, he peacefully yields to his fate. 



MARTIN VAN BUREN. 35 

MARTIN VAN BUREN. 



Eighth President. The Sagacious Moulder, and Leader of Dii- 

cordant Party Elements. 

Born Dec. 5, 1782. Dild Dec. 27, 1862. 



'M id party strife which fiercely burns, 
A nd times when fortune sudden turns, 
R eversing fortune quick as thought, 
T he man succeeds who best can plot. 
I ntelligent, for law he's fit, 
N or lacking judgment force and wit. 

V ersatile and calm of mind, he 

A party leader's sure to be. 

N ot favored with a college course, 

B ut with a native mental force, 

U nites good talents and sound sense, 

R ather this than showy school pretense ; 

E Ise learning's but a showy dress, 

N or e'er can hide mind nakedness. 

K eeping an eye to business, he 
I n a justice court engaged we see. 
N ow enters into Politics, 
3 



36 PEN PORTRAITS. 

D oes parties fashion, form and fix. 
E nters conventions very young, 
R eturns with many a friend among. 
H is friend in chief is Aaron Burr, 
O f whose sagacity to stir 
O r fuse a party : who'll demur ? 
K eep, he was able ; organized, 

C arry, he could ; popularized 

ne great and solid party mass ; 

L earned this so well — none could surpass. 
U nable though to shun all trouble, 
M ust bear the brunt of party muddle. 
B ecomes the object of all scorn, 

1 n person, mind, of glory shorn. 
A gain the party currents turn, 

C hange is at hand ; no more they spurn. 

O f county he's the surrogate, 

U ntil he's senator he'll wait. 

N ow made Attorney General, he, 

'T is his to fill a Regency. 

Y et higher to the Senate ; he, 

N ow Governor is made to be. 

E ngaged as Secretary of State, 

W e send him next to Britain, Great. 



WM. HENRY HARRISON. 



Y et more — Vice-President he's made, 

O ffices held of every grade. 

R ises at last our President, 

K ind, gen'rous man, benevolent. 



-:o:- 



He lived till four score years of age, 
And then from off life's mortal stage 
Death bid him cross o'er Jordan's stream, 
Whose surging waters lie between 
This world of care, this world of strife. 
To join the ranks of endless life. 



-:o: 



WM. HENRY HARRISON, 



Ninth President. 
Born Feb. 9, 1773- Died April 4, 1841, 



When the sound of the bugle was heard in the land, 

I ndependence the watchword on every hand, 

L iberty they called for all over the land, and 

L iberty forever these patriots demanded. 

I nstructed from youth, gets a sound education, 

A nd elected by friends for a doctor's vocation. 

Meantime, bereft of his father, who dies. 



38 PEN PORTRAITS. 

H e elects for himself, on no other relies. 
E nrolling his name as a soldier we see ; 
N ow, as ensign, he's aided by General Lee. 
R eady for action — a war is at hand, 
Y oung America's pressed all over the land, 

H ast'ning his course to Fort Washington goes — 

A ctive service awaits him, he knows no repose. 

R uthless hordes of the savage our frontiers harass, 

Relentless and cruel — no foe can surpass. 

I ntent to subdue them, unites with St. Clair, 

S avage hordes are repulsed, their cause in despair. 

O 'er all the vast region of western soil, 

N ow safe from the scalping knife, settlers may toil. 

B eing brave in his heart, is heroic in deeds, 

E ndeared to the West, soon high honor succeeds. 

R anked now as lieutenant, o'er a regiment he 

K indled with ardor his army we see. 

E very man is a hero, and onward they go, 

L aying before them every enemy low. 

E re long, as we see, a brave leader he makes, 

Y oung though he be, rank of captain he takes. 

J oining the army, in years but a boy, 
A s brave as the bravest, every foe to destroy. 
M aking for peace, battle's din heard no more ; 
E ngages, he marries, when the conflict is o'er. 
S eeks the calling so noble of tilling the soil. 



WM. HENRY HARRISON. C9 

R eposing his spirit from wonted turmoil. 
I n vain thus to plan — the country's in need, 

V ery soon to high honor he indeed shall succeed ; 
E lected by President Adams to be 

R anked secretary o'er all the west we see. 

C hosen as soon as the state's organized 

H er first representative — none need be surprised. 

Asa member of Congress distinguished became, 

R end'ring services truly worthy his name. 

L eaving his seat as a congressman he 

E nroU'd has his name as a governor to be. 

S elected for gov'nor o'er broad Indiana, 

C omprising ten times more than all Alabama. 

I ncluding which now comprise three largest states, 

T o guard and defend he the task undertakes. 

Y ielding to no one, the palm he has won, 

C lothed with more power, among governors none ; 

f powers as a judge and legislative function, 

U ndoubtedly he must have very great gumption ; 
N o municipal office, but for which he'll select, 
T o military too, save gen'ral, we except ; 

Y ca, of militia too he's made chief commander, 

V erily to rogues, though he never did pander. 

1 n everything he showed a true, honest heart, 
R oyally played he a most hon'rable part. 



40 PEN PORTRAITS, 

G iving to nim that which was his due, 

I n time see him raised into national view. 

N orth, South, East and West, alike for him declare, 

I nstalled into office, one month lives to share 

A 11 the honors attached to the President's chair. 



JOHN TYLER. 



The Tenth President. 
Born March 20, 1790. Died Jan. 17, 1862. 



J ohn Tyler was raised a gentlemen's son, 

O f Virginian youth — none more privileged among. 

H e enters the college indeed very young, 

N or fails to win honor ; his work is well done. 

T o the study of law, his mind devotes he 
Y oung for a lawyer at nineteen we see, 
L aw now has an advocate boy at the bar, 
E nters life on the eve of a terrible war. 
R ises successfully at twenty-one ; he 

C hosen a delegate of Virginia to be, 
Hearing how war clouds are gathering around, 
Asa topic for speakers, no better is found, 
R epairs to the platform and rouses the mass, 
L etting no one in zeal for his country surpass. 
E ven raises a corps of militia to fight 
S outhern soldiers of spirit, daring and might. 



JOHN TYLER. 41 

C ontinues for five years a delegate he, 
I n Executive council is next raised to be. 
T wice is given a representative seat, 

Y ou see him with honor his countrymen greet. 

C onservative strict, a constructional career 

f states' rights the champion does always appear. 
Unbiased by motives of self or of gain, 

N ever violates honor his cause to maintain, 

T o his farm and the practice of law now he goes, 

Y ielding to sickness, must needs seek repose. 

Very soon in the legislature again, 

1 n behalf of his state, her cause to maintain. 
R aised to the post of her governor is he ; 

G oes next to the Senate — yet higher to be. 

I n the midst of exciting and perilous times, 

N ow Vice-President made — so his fortune designs. 

I n a month the new President suddenly dies, 

A nd Tyler is President ; perforce, he complies. 



'lOr 



42 PEN PORTRAITS. 



JAMES KNOX POLK. 



Eleventh President. 
Born Nov. 2, 1795. Died June 15, 1849. 



f ustly may North Carolina feel proud 

A. s she looks back to thee, o'er whose fame not a cloud. 

M idst mountain scenes nurtured, independent and brave, 

E ver true to his friends ; to his country he gave 

S terling proof of his worth in peace or in war, 

K eeping virtue before him his one leading star. 
N urtured 'mong trees and reared on a farm, 
O ut west the whole family go, fearless of harm, 
'X tending the frontier of far Tennessee, 

P ut the axe with a will to the wild forest tree. 

O f health, not robust, the forest in view, 

L et the man that is stalwart the forest subdue. 

K eeping back from this task to a storekeeper goes, 

M ind and taste alike now this vocation oppose. 
E ighteen years of age his studies begun, 
C ared for, encouraged, by the learned Henderson. 
Kindled now are the fires of thought in his soul, 



JAMES K. POLK. 43 

L ets Murfreesborough school a new pupil enroll. 

E nters a student the sophomore class, 

N orth C.'s University, through he shall pass ; 

B earing off her first honors, salutatory, 

E arnest and punctual, tell the whole history. 

R eturning from college the law is his choice ; 

G oes forward, we soon at the bar hear his voice. 

N ow in less than-a year possessed of great fame, 

O n political seas we herald his name ; 

R eturned to the state legislature is he, 

T wo years representing his wild Tennessee. 

Ji elped Andrew Jackson to go to the Senate. 

C ongressman he, of Constructionist tenet. 
A ttending this body for fourteen long years, 
R etires voluntarily, for a time disappears. 

f Tennessee, governor, he's agreed to be made. 
Lost twice re-election, but out from this shade 

1 n calm, solid grandeur see him arise, 

N ever sun has more nobly ascended the skies, 
A nd he's President made, whom none can despise. 



-:o: 



44 PEN PORTRAITS. 

ZACHARY TAYLOR 



Twelfth President. 
Born Nov. 24, 1790. Died July 9, 1850. 



Z ealous soldier, true patriot, modest and pure, 

A chieving a fame that shall ever endure ; 

C laim we the highest renown for thee, 

H istory fails to present one more worthy than thee. 

A s lieutenant he enters the army to serve, 

Routs the western Indians with courage and nerve; 

Y ields neither to savages, hunger nor fire, 

T o accomplish his purpose, his only desire. 

A command of the army, the southwest division, 

Y ou see to this brave fighting hero is given ; 
L eaving Florida, now to Fort Jessup he goes, 
O 'erlooking the Mexican, fierce Texan foes. 
R earing his quarters at Corpus Christi, 

O bservation at first, occupation by and by. 

R emained several months, next to Rio Grande goes, 

A rrives after seventeen days' marching close ; 

N ow Matamoras opposite raises his flag, 

G rand music is pealing, Yankee Doodle's no drag. 

E ncamped in the sight and range of the foe. 



ZACHARY TAYLOR. 45 

C almly he waits for Ampudia to show 

f which he'll make choice, Peace or War in his mind, 
U ntil a true boundary both the governments find. 

N ot willing to wait, the Mexicans pour 

T o this side of the stream, to our side of the shore ; 

Y ou now see their General Arista in haste 

V iewing our troops, whom he thinks to lay waste. 

1 n the meantime, when ready, our general says " Fire !" 
R ed gory the field, beaten foes soon retire. 

G rim with the smoke of Pal' Alto's burnt plain, 

I n confusion, 'mid fire, they rally again ; 

N ow pressed by our troops — not a moment's delay — 

I n glory our arms win the fight of the day, 

A victory brilliant by Taylor is won, 

H e follows the foe, in disorder who've run. 
E arly next morning, the foe for defense, 
R esaco la Palma is the place they intrench. 
O ut of this natural fortress they're driven, 

O n every side pressed, their army is riven. 
F orced to surrender, Matamoras yields, 

'T is his to press forward to new gory fields. 

H e next attacks Monterey looming up in the west. 

E nvironed by batt'ries, yet he dares to invest. 



46 PEN PORTRAITS. 

M ore brilliant a victory soldier ne'er won, 

E ncountering such odds — Ealaklava's outdone. 

'X celling e'en this, Buena Vista is fought, 

I n which, with a few raw recruits lately got, 

C ompassed now round about twenty thousand and more, 

A note to " surrender," Santa Anna sends o'er. 

" N ot so," replies Taylor ; the battle fires flash. 

With confidence bold, on the Mexicans dash. 
A nd by masterly strategy, skill, and fine tact, 
R uin'd and beaten, the foes driven back. 

" A little more grape, Captain Bagg," — wins the day, 

'T is Taylor's to chase them in utter dismay. 
R outed, beaten and stricken, Santa Anna retreats, 
U nequal for Taylor, who knows no defeats. 
Endeared to the nation; when peace is secured, 

M odest hero, great general, to hardships inured, 
A call now receives to the President's chair. 
N oble in peace, — was as dauntless in war. 



•:o:- 



MILLARD FILLMORE. 47 

MILLARD FILLMORE. 



Thirteenth President. 
Born, May 7, 1800, Died, March 8, 1874, 



M ore unlikely for President none could be, 

I n means, his poor father — scarce any had he. 

L ittle chance to get knowledge for him did appear, 

L earning a luxury, and books they were dear. 

A t the age of fifteen had scarce read a book ; 

R eady for college — the poor youth ne'er did look. 

D uly counseled by parents, to a clothier's trade 

F illmore is sent to learn how garments are made. 

I n the town of Sempronius he first gets a chance, 

L ibrary free, every mind may advance. 

L ike a wayfaring man who is hungry for food, 

M illard sought out each book, read all that was good. 

O n every occasion he read when he could, 

R eading and studying as not many would. 

E very leisure hour spent in storing his mind. 

S toring up knowledge he was wholly inclined. 

U nbroken, four years he spent in this way, 

M eets in with Judge Wood — oh most fortunate day ! 

M ore esteem'd than the Judge was not to be found, 

E steem'd by all classes the country around. 

R ough in exterior the apprentice boy seem'd, 



48 PEN PORTRAITS. 

H iding under this roughness what this gentleman deem'd 

I ntellectual resources, which only to shine, 

L ike the diamond, or jaspar, or ore from the mine, 

L aid on them, requir'd but the artisan's hand, 

C reating him polished, forever to stand. 

A hint was sufficient — the youth was advised — 

Y oung Fillmore to study, his talents devised. 
U ntiringly bends to the study of law, 

G ives teaching a trial, at surveying, no daw. 
A dmitted at length to the bar he succeeds, 

C arries the state, and soon he proceeds 

O n to the State House — signalizes his name, 

U nlocks prison doors for poor debtors in shame. 

N ext to Congress elected, fills a term of two years, 

Then to Buffalo returns, as a lawyer appears. 

Y et again twice elected to Congress to go, 

N ext Governor made, for New York decides so. 
E lected Comptroller, directs business and trade, 
Within less than a year Vice-President made. 

Y ou may search all the pages of History o'er, 
O f one you can't read, your regard merits more. 
Rising from nothing, reaches higher his fame, 

K eeping on till he won the President's name. 



FRANKLIN PIERCE. 49 

FRANKLIN PIERCE. 



Fourteenth President. 
Born, Nov. 23, 1804. Died, Oct. 8, 1869. 



F ortunate man, from his boyhood how favored, 

R arely one against fewer drawbacks has labored. 

Acad'mies of Hancock, Francestown near, 

N ow offer him culture ; — well adapted appear. 

K indness and favor of all round him he won, 

L ove flow'd from his heart, like warmth from the sun. 

I n Bowdoin College with praise graduates, 

N ow the legal profession he next undertakes. 

P ractioner in law he begins right at home, 

I n his first case he fails, leaves court with a groan. 

E ffort alone, steady, constant, and he 

R anks good his position, as a lawyer to be, 

C omes he to engage in the contests of state, 

E nters now on the stream of political fate. 

H e is sent to the State Legislature three years, 

I n the chair as the speaker thrice he appears. 

L ast of this term, for the Congress he's chosen, 

L engthy, eloquent speeches against him can't be proven. 

S hrewd and vigilant he as committee man is, 



50 PEN PORTRAITS. 

B usiness and details of labor are his. 

O ffered often to him were positions of State, 

R etirement preferred, no high honors would take. 

ffered himself for one cause, that was all, 

U nhappily for soldiers, should the Nation e'er call; 
G ive up he would, then, ties of kindred and home, 
H is life and his all, for his country alone. 

N or did he refuse when the exigency came, 
E nrolls he as private goes forth to the plain ; 
With Brigadier-General attached to his name, 

H e starts for the field and wins a proud fame. 
A march to Puebla, his troops in good cheer, 
M idst guerrillas and vomito, who would not fear ? 
P uts the foe to the rout, at San Juan where first, 
S uccess he achieves as the war clouds burst, 
Has a second engagement — the National Bridge 

1 s now sharply contested ; his guns on a ridge. 
R outes the Mexican foe, and an escopette ball 
E nters only his hat, the rim, that was all. 

H aving swept all before him, onward he goes, 
E ager to follow and capture his foes. 
R caches Plan-Del-Rio ; the bridges destroyed, 
O ver a chasm that yawns deep and wide. 

On with the work a bridge is soon made, 

F or a Yankee can anything make, the word said. 



JAMES BUCHANAN. 

C heering to General Scott, he arrives, 

n to the Valley of Mexico drives. 

N ow yonder the heights of Contreras are seen, 
T ruly terrible forts with ramparts between. 
R ushing over the heights the breastworks are taken, 
E very batt'ry is silenced, the guns are forsaken. 
R ushing after the foe 'mong rocks wild and rough, 
A n accident happens Gen'ral Pierce, bad enough. 
S lipping, his war horse falls, crushing the rider, 

M aimed, mounts him again, as quick as a spider. 
E ngaged, fought again at Molina-del-Rey : 
'X tends help to Worth, and carries the fray. 

1 n due time war ended, to his home he returns, 
C oncord now full of enthusiasm burns, 

O n him now for President, the Nation's eye turns. 



61 



-:o:- 



JAMES BUCHANAN 



Fifteenth President. 
Born, April 23, 1791. Died, June i, 1868. 



J ames Buchanan of Scotch-Irish stock is born, 

A father provides that his mind he adorn. 

'M id scenes that are pleasant his young days are spent, 

E nters college quite young, is to Dickinson sent. 

S eventeen years of age comes forth with much credit, 



b:l PEN PORTRAITS. 

B egins his law studies, proceeds with great merit. 
U niting his fortune with the State when chose, 
C ailed by the people, to the State House he goes. 
H is patriotism proved what he's willing to be — 
A ccoutred a private — mustered in is he. 
N ow for ten years by re-election he's made, 
A Representative man — to his honor be't said. 
N ext head of committee Judiciary, 

S its down honored by all o'er the Nation we see. 

T o Russia as Envoy Extraordinary goes, 

O n to St. Petersburg Plenipotentiary chose. 

N or goes he in vain, he good treaties ensures, 

Y ielding gain that is rich to our commerce secures. 

B ack comes to his country — is a Senator made, 

A nxious the nation's integrity to save. 

T remendous forces are fast setting in, 

T errific throes shake the nation within. 

E ast, West, North and South, everywhere seems to be 

R ising a war-cloud, appalling to see 

"Fair Sunny South," loud for slavery contends. 
R ivet chains on her slaves still tighter intends. 
A gain into office as Secretary of State 
N ow he's summoned to duties of importance great. 
K eeps territorial boundaries right, 



JAMES BUCHANAN. 53 

L eaves no room for a future boundary fight. 

I n retirement again he seeks for repose, 

N ow appointed, to England as Minister goes. 

C entral American questions discussed, 

O f Cuban and Spanish he tried to adjust. 

U nited in conference Spain, England and France 

N ow at Ostend they meet, these questions advance. 

T o Aix la Chapelle this Protocol goes 

Y ielding fruit that is good — so the record shows. 

P atiently toiling, his country served well 

E ver seeking her good, his records all tell. 

N ow although he has done for peace all he can 

N ow a terrible war has almost began. 

S lavery or Freedom in the balance is placed • 

Y ou look o'er the South — everywhere see it traced 

*' L et the slave question be, or by God we'll secede." 

Y ainly, Buchanan may now intercede. 

A s President scarcely he's taken his place 

N ow the war-cloud has risen — who'll bear the disgrace ? 

I n the terrible crises which now intervene 

A s ex-President he disappears from the scene. 



-:o:- 



54 PEN PORTRAITS. 

ABRAHAM LINCOLN 



Sixteenth President. 
Born Feb. 12, 1809. Died April 15, 1865. 



A ugust, revered and most hon'rable name, 

B right with glory thy record — resplendent thy fame. 

R ises out of obscurity — ascending the skies, 

A great orb of glory behold him arise. 

H ow proudly we gaze on the glorious ascent 

A nation is saved by his timely advent — 

M illions of freemen and millions of slaves — 

L incolfi comes to the rescue, these millions he saves. 

I ron shackles he strikes from those that are bound, 

'N eath the "star-spangled banner" not a slave can be found. 

C ries aloud on the millions of freemen to arm, 

O ppression, secession, forever disarm, 

L ike the legions of Cyrus in numbers untold 

'N eath the banner of freedom our sons were enroll'd ; 

L ike the sand on the sea-shore in myriads they came, 

A n army more vast, no nation can claim. 

R isen up to stamp out rebellion run mad, 

U nion to save, they're in uniform clad, 

E nroU'd to march forward, and die on the field. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN 55 

C aring only for Liberty — the Union to shield. 

O 'er all the bright sky of our land blest with peace, 

U nut'rable gloom for long days did increase. 

N ow shoots out the thunderbolts pent in the cloud, 

T he flash of forked lightning with thunder peal loud. 

Y outh and age, rich and poor, are appalled at the sight ; 

K indled in warfare, in fierce frenzied might, 

E arth's very best sons — all brethren — how sad ! 

N orth, South, East and West in mourning be clad. 

'T is just as this black, fiery war-cloud must burst 

U nder God a Republican President first 

C omes up to the White House and executive power. 

K entucky's the honor to bequeath us this dower. 

Y oung Abraham Lincoln is born in Larue. 

T o the West look in pride — admire as we view 
H er soil so high honored, this statesman to claim 
E arth's noblest son in the annals of fame. 

G o, reader, far out o'er the prairie and plain, 
R ide on till the deep gloom of forest you gain ; 
E rected, discover a cabin so plain, 
A home owned by Thomas and Nancy his wife, 
T wo bold pioneers of a wilderness life. 

E re the father of Abr'am through childhood had passed, 

'M id poverty deep is an orphan boy cast, 

A nd a poor widow'd mother unable to keep, 

N ow sends forth her boy like a poor wandering sheep. 



56 PEN PORTRAITS. 

C an read nor can write, save only his name, 
I s literally void of all learning and fame. 
P assed most of his life till fully man grown 
Asa humble hired servant, without any home. 
T ill weary of wandering returns to Larue, 
I n his twenty-eighth year, a poor man, but true. 

ffers to marry a fair south'rn maid, 

N ancy Hanks, of Virginia, his partner is made. 

1 n their sentiments one, as we well understand, 
S lavery to them is distasteful ; to land 

T o secure a good title is hard to command. 

n the road they set forth, Indiana in view, 

F rom Kentucky remove, and their home at Larue. 

At length their long journey has drawn to an end, 
'M id the forests of Spencer their life think to spend. 
E ight summers and winters o'er Abr'am have rolled, 
R ifle and axe his young hands now must hold. 

1 n the midst of the forest the cabin is reared, 

C an we do less than wonder that e'er he appeared 
A man of first rank in the foreground of fame, 
N ow soaring aloft, heights immortal to gain, 

S tatesman, Barrister, President, adorned by his name. 
L ike a Moses, that he out of bondage should lead 
A host numbering millions, whom first he had freed. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 57 

V aliant, victorious, honored by all, 

E verywhere o'er the land by high, great and small. 
S afely guide the whole nation, her champion of law, 

S eated first in the nation — his voice to o'er-awe 
A 11 the foes of the Union, the champion of right, 

V ain seems such a thought ; yet he did — marvelous sight. 
I n eighteen hundred and eighteen his mother has died, 
O 'ercome by hard toil, she has dropped from his side. 

U nder ten years of age, no more her kind hand 
R ests on him, at her side accustomed to stand. 

ften called by his mother the dutiful boy, 
F orgetting no duty her peace to destroy.. 

H is father made choice again of a wife, 

1 n kindness and care who watched o'er his young life, , 
S aw to his wants as a mother did she, 

C aring for Abe — and for her so did he. 

O nly sent now and then, to an A B C school, 

U ntaught was young Lincoln ; scarce a year full, 

N ot more if were counted together the days, 

T o school-going given — such were rude western ways. 

R emarkable boy — remarkable man ! 

V oung Lincoln " picks up" all the learning he can. 

A fter licensed a lawyer he for the first time 
N ow visits a college, where brilliantly shine 
D octors of law — long dubbed LL. D. 



68 PEN PORTRAITS. 

M atrlculate students of every degree. 

A Ithough to no college Abr'am Lincoln aid go, 

R ansacked he his grammar — much pains did bestow 

T o master the rules of the language, nor failed 

Y ielding not to the task till o'er all he prevailed. 
R emarkable man. his studies ne'er ceased, 

nward he pushed, his knowledge increased ; 
F or after he entered a Congressman's chair, 

L incoln studied and mastered — a thing oh ! how rare, 

1 n all, the first six books of Euclid so well, 

B id him solve you a problem, the number just tell, 
E re the word has escaped you, proceeds with the task, 
R ight on from the first, straight through to the last ; 
T o the end of the problem without a mistake, 

Y oung students or old, who'll this task undertake ? 



-:o:- 



LINCOLN'S FIRST TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS. 

Nineteen years of age on a flat boat he hires. 

His first trip he now takes, from the forest retires, 

To New Orleans bound, down the river he glides, 

And stops by the way to traffic besides. 

His companion and he were attacked one night 

By pilfering negroes who thought might was right ; 

But Abe, who for prowess and strength was renowned, 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 59 

Drove off the whole band, not a black man was found 
On board of his boat in fifteen short minutes, 
And the boat, crew and captain still safe were all in it. 
His friend was the captain and Abe was the crew. 
The cargo was goods which from forests he drew. 



-:o:- 



THE LINCOLNS REMOVE TO ILLINOIS, 

March 2ist, 1830. 

As Abraham reached his twenty-first year, 

His father and family leave their cabin so dear. 

Which their own hands in West Indiana had reared, 

And their course o'er the prairies to Illinois steered ; 

The father and family, sons and daughters-in-law, 

All on board of the wagons which their ox-teams must draw 

In safety arrived at their new destination, 

And settled again where civilization 

Is visible only far divided apart, 

By cabins of logs in the rudest of art. 

In the county of Macon they tarried a time. 

Then settled where forest and prairie combine. 

On the verge of the prairie lying boundless and wide. 

While the timber land stretched on the opposite side. 

Here they reared them a cabin of logs rough and plain. 

Ten acres of prairie fenced in with the same ; 



60 PEN PORTRAITS. 

All hands went to work, not one of them fails, 

Abe doing his part — the splitting of rails. 

Now if any one asks the true explanation 

Why Lincoln, the late glorious chief of the nation, 

Is familiarly termed the " rail splitter " man, 

This event tells the story as brief as we can. 

But long before this remember it's true 

That to Abr'am rail splitting was something not new. 

In the Autumn new sources of trouble appear 

To the family of Lincoln in their new home out here ; 

With fever and ague they are greatly distressed, 

And find that they cannot much longer here rest ; 

They determine, however, the winter to pass. 

And brave every trial which their lot may harass. 



-:o:- 



This was the winter so famous for snow, 

So deep that all things on earth here below 

Seemed buried forever (all over the west). 

No winding sheet purer, 'neath which mortal could rest. 

Such a winter as this had never been known, 

None worse ever seen in the north frigid zone. 

Pioneers of old standing and Indians and all 

No knowledge possessed of a greater snow-fall. 

Knee deep was the deepest they ever had seen, 

But this was neck deep — the frost, ah ! how keen. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 61 

O'er the face of the country, snow six feet all over, 

On the level had fallen, the whole earth to cover ; 

On its surface a crust so hard as to bear 

The weight of a horse on its breast everywhere. 

And not a warm sun once shone till the spring, 

But piercing and cold rigid winter did cling. 

'Mid starvation and cold, many perished outright, 

And many a home disclosed a sad sight : 

Their cattle were frozen, or pined in the stall. 

While for clothing and food, little children did call. 

Now where is our hero amid all this snow ? 

Look ! there' you can see him, night and day does he go 

With a bag of provisions strapped on his back, 

One might think him a pedlar with yard-stick and pack. 

Ah ! no. Staff in hand he goes to supply, 

The wants of poor families ready to die. 

With food and with clothing — he asks no reward. 

But noble and kind, " Walks de erf like de Lord." 

Humane was his life, and brave was his heart. 

True manhood pervades him, throughout every part. 

'Mong the settlers when trials and troubles did frown. 

Thick and fast coming on them Abe Lincoln was found 

To be first in their councils, the wisest to plan. 

And stamped himself, early, nature's true nobleman. 

When fully matured, he reached manhood's estate, 

He was famed for his strength and swiftness so great ; 



62 PEN PORTRAITS. 

As a jumper, or wrestler, or runner, o'er all 

He stood first 'mong his fellows, both stalwart and tall. 

Was pronounced the stoutest man in the state. 

When first he grew up to manhood's estate ; 

But in mind, and in heart, was a giant beside. 

Gives Lincoln a place which we look on with pride. 

His body though large had not outgrown his mind, 

As is often the case among mankind we find. 

Without going far I am sure I can find 

Not a few of my race if I felt so inclined, 

Whose physical power has far left behind 

The powers of their heart and the powers of their mind. 

Not rail splitters either, but men of profession 

And some who have Reverend within their possession. 

Not slothful in business, our hero once more 

Engages again to handle the oar. 

To one Offult of Springfield, he hires as a hand, 

A flat boat to take, under Ofifult's command. 

To New Orleans down the Sangamon River, 

When the snow and the ice shall have melted forever. 

To Springfield he goes, the best he can do, 

From Macon to Springfield within a canoe. 

The country with water is flooded all o'er. 

Such a deluge as never was witnessed before. 

A flat boat to hire vainly Offult did seek. 

So Lincoln he hired at twelve dollars per week 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN 6S 

With others to cut down the trees, and then 

Build a boat for the purpose the current to stem. 

The contract was filled, the journey was made, 

And such was the liking by Ofifult displayed 

Toward Lincoln, who now by this boat enterprise, 

His acquaintance had made; and so firm he relies 

On his honesty, wisdom, energy, skill. 

He puts him in charge of his store and his mill. 

Soon hosts of acquaintance the young clerk has made, 

And numerous friends while with Offult he staid. 

But failure ensued and Lincoln again, 

Is compelled to look elsewhere his lot to maintain. 

His family ere this have all moved away. 

While Abra'm determines in New Salem to stay ; 

The war of the Black Hawk sprang up at this time, 

And Lincoln enlists and falls into line ; 

Of a volunteer company he captain is made. 

For the first time as soldier, we see him arrayed. 

He passed through the campaign, in no battle engaged, 

For peace was concluded, the war was assuaged. 

In three months he returns, and without any means. 

For the first time he enters political scenes. 

As a candidate runs for the State Legislature, 

And bears his defeat with manly good nature. 

Although a defeat, 'twas a victory too. 

For in his own precinct, where all Lincoln well knew, 



64 PEN PORTRAITS. 

All the votes that were cast, save only but seven, 

Out of nearly three hundred to Lincoln were given. 

He still is resolved to stay 'mong his friends, 

Thinks first of a trade, then to law books he tends. 

A farmer he almost determines to be, 

But the law is his choice if learning had he. 

He rashly determines store-keeping to try, 

Accepts an assortment on credit to buy, 

A stock of old goods, enough to begin 

All his plans to defeat — swift ruin to bring. 

Time soon disclosed he'd mistaken his trade. 

For a failure more perfect no man ever made. 

He ran deeper and deeper in debt every day, 

At the end of the year had nothing to pay. 

Next postmaster he of New Salem is made. 

And the store soon " winked out," as he afterwards said. 

Though the office he holds is a small one indeed, 

'Tis here the rail splitter begins to succeed ; 

Right here in this office he lays the foundation. 

Upon which he will stand at the head of the nation. 

To the study of law, his one great intention. 

He directs all his powers, spare time and attention, 

Leaves tippling, card playing, night parties alone, 

Which to many a youth have proved rot in the bone. 

In the evening he borrowed from a friend near by. 

Some law books to read; and learns to rely 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 65 

On his own native talent, energy, skill, 

To master the law which these close pages fill. 

In this way he labors — the rudiments gained. 

Which laid the foundation, on which he stands famed 

As a lawyer distinguished, successful, renowned. 

To excel him the lawyer is yet to be found. 

For a short time we see him with compass and chain, 

As surveyor engaged, his living to gain. 

Flint and Gibson he studied and learned to survey, 

Till needed to serve in some other way ; 

He does not wait long — in eighteen thirty-four, 

An election occurs ; and no one has more 

(Either candidates old or candidates new) 

Of votes to return them ; this much Lincoln can do. 

Thrice legislator, by the people he's made. 

Nor his studies of law, once aside are they laid. 

In eighteen thirty-six a license obtains 

For the practice of law ; — and rapidly gains 

A name and distinction to others unknown, 

By tact and by methods distinctly his own. 

One rare gift he possessed to illustrate his case, 

A story well told just in the right place, 

And so apposite, copious the stock kept on hand. 

That no one the secret could well understand, 

How h^ could remember so vast an array 

Of story, so powerful a jury to sway; — 



QQ PEN PORTRAITS. 

So humorous, so pointed and so apropos, 

When Lincoln determined to vanquish the foe. 

This power was a gift, and a famous one too, 

And the speaker who has it is hard to outdo. 

He reasoned with power and debated with skill. 

To his fellowmen bore a genuine good will. 

All over the west as a lawyer was famed, 

Till an influence mighty he everywhere gained. 

Intending henceforth no more to contend 

For political honor, declined, to this end. 

To serve as a candidate though greatly desired, 

And for legal pursuits from the field he retired. 

This retirement however, did not last very long, 

For a time was at hand for an advocate strong. 

To come to the rescue, and stand for the right. 

With manly intent and truth, which is might. 

Remarkable power as an advocate showed, 

With logic red hot his arguments glowed. 

No tawdry forensic, artificially refined, 

But dominant everywhere a strong grasping mind. 

His efforts are stamped by the standard so true. 

Common sense that is massive and masculine too. 

His success at the bar did not interfere 

To prevent his political, grander career. 

Of the Whig party Lincoln for many a year 

As their champion bold never fails to appear. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 67 

On electoral tickets was frequently placed, 

And to stump a whole state was quite to his taste. 

Presidential campaigns were quite to his mind, 

For, contests like these he never declined. 

He could travel all night, and could speak a whole day 

For weeks at a time for his friend Henry Clay. 

We see him confronting Calhoun of the West 

At the head of his party, their debater the best. 

But for logical power and arguments keen 

Calhoun is no match soon plainly is seen. 

In contests like these Lincoln bears off the palm 

With reasoning profound yet simple to scan. 

Though Clay was defeated, Lincoln's is not the blame ; 

The reason is elsewhere, we pause not to name. 

The question of slavery — its chains and its groans, 

In congress is felt like a fire in the bones ; 

To keep it in check the Whig party desires. 

To extend it still wider all southdom requires. 

Slavery's the centre round which everything turns, 

The spot where political fever now burns. 

All other questions of state underlies 

The tariff and labor, and hourly supplies 

New problems to solve, new troubles to meet. 

Placing thorns in the down of each Congressman's scat. 

The political worm at the root of the tree. 

Which great mischief will do, before it can be 

5 



68 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Unearthed and dragf^ed forth to the hght of the day, 

And forever destroyed and swept clean away. 

'Tis the troublesome cancer that threatens the life 

Of the nation herself, amid terrible strife 

That doubtless must come, ere removed it can be, 

With its roots deeply sunk, in the breast of the free. 

All through his career in political life, 

Lincoln slav'ry opposed, though fierce grew the strife. 

Though the waters were troubled, the heavens were dark, 

Lincoln everywhere, always reached forth to the mark. 

For the prize of his calling, so noble and high. 

Though mountains might shake and dark be the sky. 

Let mountains be moved, and cast into the sea. 

His heart throbbed the same for the land of the free. 

His position to slavery may thus be defined, 

A just illustration of his candor of mind : 

Slavery, he held, was abhorrent and wrong. 

Yet deemed it not just to the South, where so long 

Had existed this evil and sad institution. 

To give his assent to one resolution 

That went to make war on its soil and dethrone 

Its right to continue in its own southern home ; 

Where already 'twas planted he was willing that there 

It might still so continue, but no other where 

Was he willing that slavery should farther extend, 

And for this everywhere he did nobly contend. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 69 

It was not its extinction he sought to obtain, 

Its extension he sought and was bound to restrain. 

When new states were enrolled, determined was he 

That the "star-spangled banner" should wave o'er the free. 

Let slavery alone where already it's found, 

But crush and destroy it when it treads on new ground. 

If the men of the South had with this been content, 

Not a dollar for war would e'er have been spent ; 

Not a cartridge ignited — no blood had been spilt. 

Not a dagger drawn back, red with blood to the hilt. 

Not a battle been fought, not a cannon have thundered, 

While the nations looked on, and trembled and wondered. 

Not a city or home in the land rent with sorrow, 

Which in beauty to-day, was in ruins to-morrow. 

So also it's true, slaves, who're freemen to-day, 

Still slaves would have been, in the old-fashioned way; 

But their masters designing this cause to extend, 

The sword taking up, brought it all to an end. 

To the colored race here a word may be said : 

For your liberty — oh ! the price that's been paid — 

Billions of dollars and millions of lives ; 

Then value your freedom — your liberty prize. 

Be grateful and thankful, oft call it to mind 

What a terrible ransom, your chains to unbind, 

It has cost the whole country — all over the land — 

And now since you're free, true to liberty stand. 



70 PEN PORTRAITS 

On the issue of Slavery, two great parties evolved, 

Which absorbed in their growth, or in some way involved 

All other distinctive political factions, 

Which blended, in view of these pending transact'ons. 

One party, for slavery — its right of extension , 

The other — suppression — its peaceful prevention. 

One cries ** suppress," — the other, " extend," 

While God means to bring the whole thing to an end. 

The Democrats long had carried the sway. 

But Republicans now, marching up the high way, 

Shall in turn plant their standard to wave o'er the field, 

Which to them, for the first. Democrats must soon yield. 

Abolitionists now, of the north lose no time, 

Republicans everywhere fall into line. 

East and West, North and South — all over the land — 

On one side or other, every man takes his stand. 

From political life Abra'm Lincoln withdrew, 

His practice of law alone to pursue. 

At Springfield he sought and procured him a home. 

Where he brought his young bride — where his children 

were grown. 
In eighteen hundred and forty this retirement took place. 
And for four years he runs no political race. 
In eighteen forty-two he married his wife, 
To cheer and adorn all his subsequent life. 
Though besought by his friends, re-election declined, 
For he, voluntarily, for his home felt inclined ; 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 



71 



His home he made happy, and their friends loved to call, 

As a husband he stands an exemplar for all. 

In eighteen forty-six to congress he goes. 

The pride of his friends and the dread of his foes. 

'Tis the thirtieth congress — the men who are there, 

For talent and culture will grandly compare 

With any passed congress assembled before. 

Since the days of the Fathers or congress of yore ; 

And never a congress before was convened, 

]\Iore perturbed and excited — which every hour seemed. 

All through the scenes which this congress revealed, 

Lincoln proved what vast influence and power he could 

wield ; 
Was faithful to duty, though young, it is true, 
Yet first as a congressman rises in view. 
As a statesman he proved himself one of the best, 
Standing first as the champion son of the West. 
At the close of this congress, so brilliant and great, 
Once more he retires from the business of State. 
For five years he follows professional life 
As a lawyer of fame — shuns political strife. 

But roused once again, his country betrayed, 
He enters the contest — the country is saved. 
In eighteen fifty-four takes the stump once again, 
And travels the country o'er mountain and plain. 
Judge Douglas confronts, for the mastery competes, 
On all great issues pending, this champion defeats. 



72 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Ii nominee senator in eighteen fifty-eight, 

And has gained, by his speeches, popularity great. 

His great field campaign has made him renown'd, 

At the head of his party, republican, found. 

All over the land vast assemblies addressed. 

Their champion comes, is their leader the best, 

To show to the people, north, west, south and east, 

Exactly how stand troubles greatest and least. 

In his contest with Douglas, as with Calhoun before, 

Victorious he is — and Judge Douglas no more. 

A republican party has now been evolved 

Of giant proportions — with numbers untold. 

Round the ramparts of truth the millions now gather. 

Which Lincoln has taught them to stand by together. 

In eighteen fifty-six it was first organized, 

The Republican party which Lincoln devised. 

At Bloomington met, where in conclave convened 

Every man a plain duty now readily deemed 

To declare against slavery extending its sway 

Into new territorial parts that outlay. 

To the limits assigned it : where the Democrats swore 

They were willing to leave it a few years before. 

But eager their prestige of party to keep, 

They struck out to sea — and once more to the deep 

Of political war, they committed their case 

Which roused the whole land, the slave question to face 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 73 

Nebraska and Kansas slave states shall be made, 
Was the aim of the Democrats, so sorely dismayed. 
That if this were not so, their chances were gone. 
To continue in power as they had done so long. 

All past understandings were now swept away. 

And Judge Douglas, with others, did their country betray^ 

Nay, further, they claimed constitutional right 

To hold in the grasp of their slave-holding might 

Every state in the Union, from Nebraska to Maine, , 

And boldly this purpose they sought to maintain, . 

This kindled the fires, which fiercely did bum,, 
And to ashes reduced, in its own southern urn, 
The whole institution of slavery full grown 
To the size of a giant, in its undisturbed home. 
The contest grew stronger and fiercer each hour, 
To keep back the monster — to curb in his power. 
'Mong leaders of party none nobler stood forth. 
As Liberty's champion in the West or the North, 
Than Lincoln, whom millions did gather to hear, 
On the platform or rostrum, whene'er he'd appear. 
He was sent for to travel the East everywhere, 
His position define — his views to declare. 
Was everywhere greeted with wonderous applause, 
As the Champion of right and Defender of laws. 



74 PEN PORTRAITS. 

He is virtually now Republican leader, 
For their ranks cannot furnish so powerful a pleader. 
At the close of this campaign the crisis draws near, 
Secession is threatened — the country's in fear; — 
In dread that amid such appalling dark gloom, 
That the nation is nearing a terrible doom. 

To listen to reason — the South — they disdain. 
All hope of their yielding in peace is in vain, 
Nay ! War is now threatened before they will yield 
For Republican standards to wave o'er the field. 

Secession is mooted, Disunion the cry, 

Which is heard o'er the South and ascends to the sky, 

An election is pending — who shall be the man 

To succeed to the chair ? Since James Buchanan 

Is not likely again to receive nomination 

By either great party dividing the nation. 

Two conventions assemble to make nomination 
Of the man who shall President be of the nation. 
The Republicans meet in their " wigwam " so large, 
The privilege of freemen they come to discharge. 
In Chicago they meet, the " Queen " of the West, 
While union and liberty fires every breast. 
In Charleston, " down South," the Democrats meet, 
Eager, still, the Republican hosts to defeat. 
But after two weeks spent in angry debate, 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 75 

Adjourn, and no candidate can nominate. 
Judge Douglas wont do, and they cannot agree, 
Their cause in despair, they hopelessly see. 

Not so the Republicans — in less than two days 
Their choice is determined. The wigwam ablaze 
With the fires of delight and the frenzy of joy, 
Abra'm Lincoln's the man, the rail splitter's boy. 
The thousands within, the thousands without. 
Now rend the blue heavens with many a shout. 
When announced that 'tis Lincoln who's chosen to be, 
By this mighty convention of brave men and free. 
To preside as our chief at the head of the nation, 
'Mid times so portentous of wide desolation. 
Cheer upon cheer burst forth on the air. 
By the thousands of voices which all mingled there, 
Till the sound of acclaim became deaf'ning to hear; 
While many a face was moist with the tear. 
As o'er the vast host, like a wave o'er the sea. 
Emotions of joy swelled the hearts of the free. 
The whole living mass of the thousands met there. 
Their voices commingled like one voice on the air. 
It was flashed o'er the country, and everywhere joy. 
Every class, tongue and pen did employ. 
Every hamlet and village, every city and town. 
All, save the South, ere the sun had gone down, 



76 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Was filled with uproarious joy and acclaim 

To Lincoln! to Lincoln! At the sound of his name 

All over the land the bonfires did blaze, 

And the atmosphere filled with the wildest huzzas. 

Hurrah! for Abe Lincoln, the splitter of rails, 

Whose coming the nation with gratitude hails. 

We pause not to tell of the canvass that followed, 
Nor speak of the millions, so majestic and solid. 
Who formed rank and file, the Republican host, 
And marched to the polls, proud of Lincoln to boast, 
And there, by their suffrage, decided that he 
Should, of these States United, the President be. 

On the fourth day of March, eighteen sixty-one, 
At the Capitol, now down in Washington, 
Mr. Lincoln appears, into office is sworn ; 
That office, who'll doubt he will fail to adorn ? 

But what are the issues which our President first 
Is called to attend to ? And, what is the worst, 
The most painful and dreadful that ever before 
Were known of or heard of, for Lincoln in store ? 

Revolt had been plotted, revolt was matured. 
No Republican rule by the South is endured. 
A conspiracy vast had been laid to secede, 
If to power the Republicans once should succeed. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 77 

A Republican President placed in the chair, 
That moment they meant the Flag down to tear — 
The flag of the Union — oh ! terrible hour ! 
From every ship mast, every fortress and tower. 
This seems more than can happen ; for how can it be. 
That the flag which has waved o'er the land of the free 
Should ever give place for another to wave ? 
Save only when freedom has found her a grave. 
Can a hand be uplifted this flag to tear down ? 
The star-spangled banner, the flag of renown. 
In all our broad land, under any pretense ? 
Incredible seems, and admits no defense. 

The men of the South have made a mistake, 
And South Carolina does first undertake 
To dismantle the Union, the flag to molest, 
Then six other states in this business invest. 

After Lincoln's election four months intervene, 
And no time is delayed. Complotters are seen, 
Everything to arrange and for war to prepare. 
If Lincoln's new regime their plans fail to share. 
Their right to secede is the ground they have taken, 
And all other ground, save this, they've forsaken. 
This they intend, and this they will do. 
They in public declare, this hold up to view. 

Buchanan bears witness that this is not right. 
But to stop it, he deems, it is out of his might. 



78 PEN PORTRAITS. 

His cabinet officers just do as they please, 

And on shipping and treasury, and everything- seize. 

They plunder the White House of all that they can, 

In event of a struggle to make good their plan. 

The advantage to have, at least, in the start. 

They take all they can ere they all must depart 

From the halls of the cabinet chamber, where soon 

A Republican cabinet will stand in their room. 

While in South Carolina, awaiting decision. 

Was an ord'nance which gave in their adhesion : 

That they, as a state, had the right to secede. 

Buchanan this act could not supersede 

By any authority vested in him 

(So he said to their leaders) ; yet said it's a sin 

To make an attempt so unconstitutional, 

But which cannot, I think (?), be unabsolutional, 

As there is no provision in our constitution 

To hinder or punish this sort of intrusion. 

By a veteran head of the army advised, 

At an earlier day the warning despised, 

" To take the precaution to hold in possession 

All the Southern forts, in view of secession." 

Not a finger he moved, no response did he make, 

Though warned in good time this precaution to take. 

So, forward the work of secession went on, 
And rapidly, too, everything moved along. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 



79 



In December, eighteen sixty, the twentieth day, 
South Carohna, without further delay. 
The ordinance passed and dared to secede. 
Notwithstanding Buchanan did earnestly plead. 
The anniversary week, when Washington clave 
With his boats, in the night, the Delaware's w^ave. 
Saved the nation from ruin, by recrossing the flood 
Of that dark swollen river, and shedding the blood 
Of the Hessians and British, who never again 
Should the mastery of him and his army regain. 
On the twenty-eighth day Fort Moultrie was taken, 
And loyalty to union was formally forsaken. 
And the Palmetto flag in Charleston was raised 
Over government property, in treason, it waved. 
(On the Battle of Trenton's anniversary day, 
When Cornwallis, pierced to the heart with dismay, 
Witnessed his troops in disorder retreat, 
While Washington's army his troops did defeat.) 

Next, Governor Brown does the same at Savannah, 
And close on his heels, the next, Alabama ; 
Forts Pulaski and Jackson, both of Savannah, 
And Fort Morgan of Mobile in old Alabama, 
Give proof of their treason in rapid succession, 
By hoisting the flag of revolt and secession. 

While all this is doing, Buchanan supine 

Does nothing at all more than simper and whine, 



80 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Nay, winks at it all — fresh treason invites 

By a marvelous devotion (?) to constitutional rights. 

True, a gunboat is sent — "The Star of the West," 

Instructed Fort Sumpter with troops to invest. 

Now held by a garrison, by no means efficient. 

For adequate service by no means sufficient. 

She's fired at by rebels, her flag is shot down ! 

From the batteries of Moultrie, whose battlements frown, 

All bristling with cannon, that flag to defy, 

For whose honor they all should be willing to die. 

Then Florida, Georgia, join in the fray, 

Lou-ise-i-ana and Texas array 

Their names and their all on the side of secession, 

And proclaim themselves part of this stately procession 

Of states in rebellion, who've already proclaimed 

No more in the Union shall they ever be claimed. 

Unwilling to rush Into warfare and blood. 
And deluge the earth with war's fiery flood, 
Lincoln paused ere the fiat of death should go forth. 
And invited the South to make peace with the North. 

His inaugural address with wisdom imbued, 
Most wisely advised the whole South for their good ; 
And by every endeavor, war, he tried to avert — 
A thing — how abhorrent to his kind noble heart. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 



81 



But all was in vain — the decree had to speed 

On the wings of the lightning — let war supersede. 

For all plans to secure a peaceful solution, 

Of adjusting their rights by the old constitution, 

Of redressing their wrongs and continuing in peace, 

Their fortunes and glory hand in hand to increase, 

All signally failed ; one alternative now, 

Will the case now admit — will the crisis allow ? 

It is war, cruel war, fierce fratricide war, 

Which the national glory forever must mar ; 

Which shall cover the hills and valleys with woe 

Ere the arms of rebellion shall in ruin lie low. 

Ere the problem of slavery solved forever shall be. 

And its stain blotted out from the land of the free. 

Ere the flag shall be honored at home and abroad, 

And the nation be humbled, in dust, before God ; 

For slavery, with pride, is the national sin. 

For which God, the whole nation, to judgment will bring. 

The time has now come for the " woe " to succeed. 

For " offenses " have come and the nation must bleed. 

'* Offenses must come, but woe unto him 

** By whom offense cometh" — a curse it must bring. 

Here we pause not to tell of the carnage that followed 
Throughout the long years of this war so unhallowed. 
Defeat at the first and victory at last. 
For four years through horrible slaughter we passed. 



82 PEN PORTRAITS. 

All over the land how the legions did gather, 
To stamp out rebellion and treason forever, 
The flag to protect, the Union to save, 
And treason to bury deep down in its grave. 

As the conflict advanced, the season rolled round, 
When slavery, at last, must be hurl'd to the ground. 
This was not to be done save as the last remedy, 
The Union to save from the power of the enemy. 

In the year of our Lord, eighteen sixty and two, 

On September the twenty-second we view 

The President proclaiming emancipation. 

For the slaves of the South — in those parts of the nation 

Now in armed rebellion, as a war measure he, 

Has determined at last the slave to make free. 

All the lovers of freedom in the nation rejoice, 

And their hearts lift to God with true thankful voice ; 

And the people of Europe take up the cry, 

And with confidence now on our cause they rely. 

On January first, eighteen sixty and three, 
Five millions of slaves in a moment are free. 
Their shackles are broken — they fall to the ground, 
No longer a slave in the land can be found. 
For this was the day the great proclamation 
Came into force since its first promulgation. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 83 

The jubilee's come, the great jubilee ! 
Five millions in bondage forever are free. 
The nations admire the glorious sight, 
And Lincoln seems clothed in a panoply bright 
Of glory refulgent ; and high rose his fame, 
When he wrote out that article signed by his name, 
Which shattered their chains, never, never to be. 
Five millions of slaves in the home of the free. 

This war measure doubtless accomplished its end, 
The Union in danger it helped to defend. 
And hastened a speedier close of the war. 
Whose anguish extended from near and from far. 

In eighteen sixty-four, re-elected again, 

Lincoln, President still, is called to remain : 

This makes plain to the South that the war is sustained, 

The cause of the North shall and must be maintained. 

The slave shall be freed, the rebellion put down. 

And victory the cause of the freemen shall crown. 

His inaugural address, let the reader peruse, 

And when on these words of wisdom you muse. 

There witness his greatness and grandeur of soul. 

The candor and truth which his feelings control. 

*Twas Lincoln's to have, of angels or men. 

The tongue that was eloquent, while powerful his pen. 

6 



84 PEN PORTRAITS. 

He was ready his goods to give to the poor, 

And meekly was ready all things to endure. 

His body he'd give to be burnt in the flame, 

For the good of his country, her honor and name ; 

Which if love was not there would all be in vain. 

This was Lincoln's to have ; in his heart love did reign. 

How that charity found its home in his heart 

Which to no man on earth bears an envious part. 

Which harbors no malice — no revenge to his foes. 

Not a thought that is selfish to anyone knows ; 

Which itself vaunteth not, nor envies nor boasts. 

Nor exalteth itself 'mong inferior hosts. 

And ne'er is puffed up, nor unseemly behaves. 

Nor acteth unjust, nor assumes crooked ways ; 

Which all things endures and all things believes. 

And never turns traitor, nor never deceives ; 

Which hopeth, endureth, and faileth — no ! never, 

Which lives and abides the same now and forever. 

" With malice to none, charity for all," 

Are the words from his lips in beauty which fall. 

" With firmness in right as God gives to see," 

In all that is right let us more earnest be. 

Let us finish the work now given to do. 

Let us bind up the wounds of the nation — and view, 

With pity and kindness, the mother and child 

Left widow'd and orphan'd as the flames so wild 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 85 

Of warfare sweep over the land ; and blood 

Flows down in torrents — a dark gory flood. 

Once again 'mongst ourselves, let our people possess 

Peace and enjoyment with none to oppress ; 

In peace with the nations God grant we may live, 

To the achievement of which our hearts let us give. 

These are the feelings which weighed in his soul, 
Love towards mankind his heart did control. 
With hope and with joy begins he to see 
The close of the war both on land and on sea, 
Looks into the future, and with hope he relies 
On the goodness of God, whose boundless supplies 
Of goodness and grace once more he'll bestow 
On the land now so filled with mourning and woe. 

In this terrible chapter distinctly he read, 

The footprints of God so marvelous and dread. 

He saw how the nation stood sorely rebuked, 

(The North and the South), as calmly he looked 

On the scenes of disaster — the price that was paid 

By the North and the South ere the conflict was stayed. 

How that God had determined the slave to go free, 

And punish the nation that permitted to be 

On their soil a great system of injustice and wrong. 

To flourish and spread, unmolested so long. 



OvJ PEN PORTRAITS. 

On the third day of April all with Richmond is o'er, 
The rebel headquarters with them are no more. 
April the Ninth, eighteen sixty and five, 
Comes the end of the war, all hearts to revive. 
To General Grant the surrender of Lee 
Puts an end to the war — how pleasing to see ! 
All the nation rejoices — both the South and the North 
That our brave sons no more to the field need go forth. 
That no more effusion of blood shall be made, 
Since the fierce, bloody conflict and carnage are stayed. 
Lincoln visited Richmond on April the Fourth— 
To see him, in friendship, the people came forth, 
White men and colored — all were happy to see, 
But the latter especially, whom Lincoln did free ; 
With wondrous emotion they surged round his feet, 
With frenzied delight their Moses they meet. 
On the Fifth he returned back to City Point, 
And the two following days, by his lady joined, 
Passed over the battle-field's desolate scene. 
Where armies were led — where carnag-e had been. 
'Mong the sick in the hospital much time he spent. 
And to them Lincoln seemed like an angel sent ; 
Like a father he spake to the wounded and dying, 
And lightened the load of their suffering and sighing. 

He returned to the White House all safely again 
From Richmond so battered, and prisons of pain, 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 87 

Expecting each hour the surrender of Lee, 

And then no more of war should anyone see. 

On the Ninth it occurred, and the country all round 

Was filled full of joy — mirth and gladness abound. 

The streets of the cities with mirth overflow 

As jubilant millions now rush to and fro. 

Cannons are booming all over the land. 

And millions their feelings cannot command. 

Millions of flags to the winds wave on high 

As anthems of praises go up to the sky. 

Before the White House a vast throng unnumbered 

Gathered together as the cannonade thundered. 

While music was playing, and the bass-drum resounded. 

For Lincoln they clamored, who came forth confounded 

By the terrible din of the joy that now sounded. 

Demonstrations of which were almost unbounded. 

After speaking the word of grateful emotion. 

That swelled in his heart like a wave on the ocean. 

He asked them to play the favorite air " Dixie," 

\Vhich so often resounded since the year eighteen-sixty. 

Then he joined with the concourse in three stirring cheers 

For Grant and the navy in all future years. 

On April the Eleventh a grand serenade, 

Cur President's speech — the last that he made — 

Is one that is packed w^ith religion and sense. 

Coming forth from his heart, free from sinful pretense. 



88 PEN PORTRAITS. 

DEATH OF LINCOLN. 

The morning has dawned so longed for and prayed, 

When the clangor and tumult of war shall be stayed ; 

Rebellion and treason and bloodshed no more — 

The dark lurid torrents of battle are o'er, 

The long weary years now draw to a close, 

And the nation from warfare once more shall repose. 

The country is saved — though fearfully rent 

Ere the tempest and whirlwind of treason were spent. 

And no one more happy than Lincoln is seen, 

As he watches the broodings of peace o'er the scene. 

He now seems to enter a term of repose, 

How thankful to God that war is to close. 

The first step he's taken the army to place 

On a footing of peace ; in fair lines to trace 

On his banner the beautiful image of peace, 

And afford unto all from their fears a release. 

He inaugurates first, without any delay, 

For States in rebellion a bright gladsome day. 

A government loyal takes steps to secure 

For each State of the South, their rights to ensure, 

Forbearance and clemency, charity, he 

Declared to the South extended should be. 

To Lincoln this task was lighter, by far. 

Than the terrible duties pertaining to war. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 89 

His face seems already all glowing with joy, 
His heart full of love without any alloy. 
His humor so gladsome, its place now resumes, 
While treason and war in their grave he entombs. 

And now see him picture the future so fair, 
The seasons of rest and of happiness rare 
As he thinks of the years in the future to come 
Like rivers of Eden his thoughts sweetly run, 
Ah ! little he dreams that so soon he shall lie 
By a murderous hand struck down, he shall die. 

His wife by his side he drives forth to enjoy 
The beauty of sunset — no foe to annoy. 
His heart seems with rapture filled up to the brim, 
Light filling his soul, which nothing can dim. 

But hark ! to his wife — what forebodings of fear 
Now well in her heart — from her eye falls a tear, 
She says to her husband " 'twas with you thus before 
When our dear Willie sickened, and soon all was o'er." 
'Twas true this sad sorrow a shadow had cast 
O'er the pathway of Lincoln from that hour in the past 
Which shall carry its length to the last hour of life 
Amid darkness or sun-light, friendship or strife. 
But quickly recovering, he made this reply 
" There's in store for us joy, all fear we defy." 



90 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Ere the words had escaped him and died on the air 
His murder's determined, and no one aware. 
No one suspects — save assassins — no one knows 
How soon he shall die at the hands of his foes. 
Many friends have been coming and going to-night, 
Ne'er dreaming of Lincoln they took their last sight 
Till in death they should see him, pulseless. and cold, 
No longer for country the champion bold. 

With General Grant he engages to spend 

An hour at the drama, his mind to unbend 

So burdened with care and duties of state 

He thinks in this way friends and self to elate. 

But engagements forbid that the general attend 

So Lincoln and lady with Miss Harris, a friend. 

And Rathbone go thither, as the clock has struck nine 

They enter the building — 'mid the glare and the shine 

And shouts of applause as the multitudes greet 

The President's party, who there take their seat. 

As the drama proceeds, intent on the play 
The moments and minutes are speeding away, 
When, sudden ! the crack of a pistol is heard ; 
With emotions intense the audience is stirred, 
From the President's box a column of smoke, 
The cries of a woman, God's mercy invokes. 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 01 

When the minds of all present were absorbed in the play, 

Like a tiger intent to spring on the prey, 

The stealthy assassin entered and fired, 

And Lincoln that night breathed his last and expired. 

Ah ! why did he do it ? — no mortal can tell, 
And how he could do it ? — defies Heaven and Hell. 
Ah ! how could he kill one so generous and kind, 
So noble by nature, with so lofty a mind ? 

The nation in joy was o'erwhelmed in sorrow. 

As the tidings flew forth with the dawn of the morrow, 

No demon in hell could better have planned 

How. to wound the most hearts throughout all the land, 

Than that by which Lincoln was swept to the grave. 

Who, as father and friend, this great nation did save. 

Many a fireside and many a home 

Was made doubly dreary and doubly lone. 

Sadness unmixed has seized upon all 

Throughout all the land both on great and on small, 

From the pomp of rejoicing, intensified gloom 

Covers all hearts as when clouds at high noon 

Like a pall round the sun, obscuring each ray. 

Shut out all the light and glory of day. 

Men ceased from their business and workmen turned home 

And merchants and bankers their trade let alone. 



92 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Bells sadly tolled in all parts of the land 
And silent with grief mourning multitudes stand. 
And drapery of mourning is everywhere seen 
Enshrouding the halls where have recently been 
The peal of glad music and joyous acclaim 
Sounding high on the air at Lincoln's great name. 
Scarce a house in the capital but wears the attire 
Of mourning for Lincoln — doomed thus to expire, 
Just at a time, when all over the land 
Every true loyal heart he in love did command. 
The press and the platform — every altar of prayer 
Joined in the cry of the land's deep despair. 

Farewell ! Abra'm Lincoln, we bid thee Farewell ! 

We know thou art gone with the ransomed to dwell. 

The loss is to us — the gain is all yours. 

Your unbroken repose it forever secures. 

You are gone from the scenes of this world's fiery strife 

To rejoice 'mid the scenes of an endless life. 

If you planned for a respite from care here below 

A greater, God gave you from sorrow and woe 

By making your spirit a guest of that home, 

Which Christ has prepared for those who're his own. 

From the National Capitol, your earthly abode, 

You've ascended the pathway by millions bestrode. 

Who have fought a good fight and finished their course. 

And are ready to take at its boundless resource. 



ANDREW JOHNSON. 93 

The glory eternal of life evermore, 

In the mansions of glory on Canaan's bright shore. 

If stealthy assassin, ruthless and cruel. 

From his pedestal struck one whose orbit was full 

Of the glory and honor which on earth can be won, 

The angels of God, all alert looking on. 

Quicker than light flashes down from the sun, 

Abra'm Lincoln received when the murder was done. 

They bore his great spirit to glory away 

From the darkness of night to the realms of day, 

And Jesus received him with the plaudit " well done," 

And placed on his brow a pure golden crown. 

For sure if at all can be said of a man, 

" Thou'st been faithful and true" — of Lincoln it can : 

He was true to his country, and true to his God, 

And meekly as Moses " passed under the rod." 

ANDR EW JOH NSON. 

Seventeenth President. The man of the People and Southern 

Unionist throughout the Great RebeUion. 

Born Dec 29th, 1808. Died July 30th, 1875. 

A ndrew Johnson, like Jackson, when young is bereft, 

N ot five years of age, is an orphan boy left. 

D eath, sudden, draws near — his father is drowned — 

R elief for the mother in labor is found. 

E arn her bread, by hard toil, for herself and her son, 

W ith motherly instinct at once she begun. 



94 PEN PORTRAITS. 

J ust scarcely at all did he e'er go to school, 

O f reading and parsing he ne'er learnt a rule. 

1 1 c knew not a letter at ten years of age, 

1 1 ow apprenticed a tailor, sets forth on life's stage. 

5 eeing daily his ignorance, with smart of keen shame, 

f so abject a place, for his station and name, 

N ow resolved to gain knowledge, whatever the cost, 

R esolved he in earnest — not a moment he lost. 
A gentleman came, to the workmen to read, 
L ightening the hours of hard toil did succeed. 
E agerly Andrew, his ears did bestow — 

1 ntent to hear all — head and heart all aglow. 

G reat speeches of statesmen of historic fame — 
H e heard ; and resolved that to read he'd attain. 

N ow mastering the alphabet, next learns to spell, 
O f books sealed to him, now no longer we tell. 
R emains an apprentice till his term has expired, 
To Lawrence he goes — is a journeyman hired. 
H e to Raleigh returns, then to Greenville he goes, 

C ommands steady work in making men's clothes. 

A beautiful maiden, accomplished and true. 

Rejoices the fortunes of Andrew to woo. 

O n the work-bench, the needle he plies with good speed, 



ANDREW JOHNSON. 95 

L istening each day while his wife sits to read ; 

I n the evenings he learns to figure and write — 

N o man e'er possessed more invincible might. 

A s first fi"uits of her teaching, with workmen he grows 

To popular favor — as one might suppose. 

H is mind-power was vast, now so well improved 

E nergy his, self-reliance unmoved. 

'M id his high aspirations, towered high like a steeple 
"A government of, by and for the whole people." 
N ever shrank to oppose aristocracy's sway. 

O n every occasion held on his proud way. 
F irm to the interests of labor stands he. — 

T o an alderman's post is chosen to be, 

H e's next a trustee of a learned institution, 

E nsures Tennessee a new constitution. 

P lacing himself in the front rank position, 
E ndeavoring to raise the workman's condition. 
O f this large worthy class, the champion is he 
P ledged to his support every man seems to be, 
L inked heart and hand with the people we see 
E lected as their representative he. 



96 PEN PORTRAITS. 

To hear him at first, his voice seemed to whine; 

H e warms with his subject, round your heart to cntwin. 

E ach sentence and word, every letter and sound, 

T ill in ecstasy held, you're a listener spell-bound. 
A s presidential elector, he canvassed his state, 
Y ielding good service, returns his candidate. 
L egislator he was — no political hackney ; 
O mate he was not, for the right, gained the acme. 
R eturned to the senate from Hawkins and Greene, 

A denouncer he was of what wrong to him seemed. 
N ext to congress, this champion of Liberty goes, 
D etermined all wrongs in the land to oppose. 

S its senator he for successive ten years, 

T ill chosen for Gov'nor Andrew Johnson appears. 

A s United States Senator for six years we see, 

T ill made milit'ry gov'nor o'er all Tennessee. 

E re this, he belonged to the State — but no more. 

S tatesman, — he's claimed by the country all o'er. 

M odestly assumes and appreciates well 

A 11 positions of trust — to his honor we tell. 

N ever flinches to face the proud and the arrogant, 

O r lets pass unrebuked any disparagement 

F rowning with scorn on the honest mechanic, — 



ANDREW JOHNSON 97 

A 11 snobs, rank and file, are repulsed in a panic. 
'M id the terrible throes of Rebellion he stood 
Ever firm by the nation — her honor and good, 
R ebellion denounced — " Hang traitors," he cried 
I ntent that no treason the land should divide. 
C radled 'mid slavery, 'mong slaves his career— 
A declaimer, for African rights, does appear. 

A cting under conviction, leaps to the front 
N or staggers to meet foul treason's fell brunt. 
D etermined for Union to stand or to fall 

Utilizes his forces, his fortunes, his all. 
N or fears he in eloquent words to proclaim 
" I ndivisible, and one, let the nation remain; " 
" O ur Union it must and shall be preserved," 
"No right for a state to secede is reserved." 
I n every particular, throughout all the war 
S afety for country — his one guiding star. 
T riumphantly he is Vice-President made, 

I ntent Abraham Lincoln wholly to aid 

N ear the close of the war this office he takes. 

With feelings of pride, sees the war fires abate, 
A 11 Rebeldom yields — Abraham Lincoln is shot 
R anks Johnson the President — 'twill ne'er be forgot. 



08 PEN PORTRAITS. 

ULYSSES S. GRANT, 



EigKtee-nth President and Military Champion of the Great RebelUon 
of i860 and 1864. 

Born April 27th, 1822. 



U nlike most men, Grant by the force of action speaks, 

L ets force of words in " silent majesty " alone. 

You, who the world would save by noise and bunkum 

freaks, 
S trive hard, and sure defeat, your folly will atone. 
S uch method, ne'er the flag, the Union would have saved 
E ncountering rebel hate, and rebels' ruthless power, 
S uccess was won, the Union and the country saved ; 

S aved, how ? by thought in action suited to the hour. 

I n firmness, daring, courage, dauntless, deathless, bold, 

'M ong Greek or Roman soldiers none may better boast, 

P ushing his legions on, what valor we behold ; 

S uch ardor, calm, determined, never faced embattled host. 

O bstacles he trampled in the dust ; and onward, 

N othing could stay his march, or turn him from his course. 

"Go on to Richmon'd," and the legions pour " forward," 
R each Richmond, and the country is forever saved ; 
A nd o'er every hill and valley south and northward 
N o treason flag did dare to wave, where treason raved, 
T o tell of shame of slave, or stamp us northern coward. 



ULYSSES S. GRANT. 99 

M ay Twenty-Seventh, eighteen twenty and two, 

T his champion was born whom we here bring to view. 

P oor, but honest, his parents toiled to subsist, 

L ike milhons besides, 'twas a fight to exist, 

E ager to be independent, they sought 

A nd hard, day by day, these poor peasants wrought. 

S cotch, by descent, they were honest and brave, 

A nd firmly resolved every hardship to brave. 

N ow Ulysses, their eldest and first born son 

T o work had to go — life, in this way begun. 

P ut in charge of a team at eight years of age, 

O n the road, all alone, at ten does engage, 

R eady, starts out — Cincinnati makes he, 

'T is distant from home, forty miles, as we see, 

A nd business transacts for his father while there, 

G ives proof of a spirit, for courage that's rare, 

E vinced, when a boy, perseverance and will, 

C ourageously facing every danger and ill. 

O n a pony he's mounted, to try if it can 

U lysses shake off; it tries every plan, 

! r o use ; — with persistent tenacity he 

T o the pony clings fast — shook off cannot be; 

Y ca ! the pony, a monkey is sent to help. 

7 



100 PEN PORTRAITS. 

n the back of Ulysses it perches itself, 

H is hair pulls with venom, the sly, crafty elf! 

1 n spite of them both, the ring master's foiled, 

n the lad all eyes rest — on this heroic child. 

T o figures he's apt — yet can't go to school, 
H is father's a tanner — of work he is full. 
E ager, however, to see his young son 

M ake progress in learning, to his aid fain would come. 

1 n due time to West Point young Ulysses is sent, 
L iking well the idea that his life shall be spent 

I n the scenes and excitements of milit'ry life, 

T o which no one more suited when warfare was rife, 

A mid bustle and tumult, commotion and strife. 

R anks he a cadet at eighteen years of age, 

Y oung Grant at West Point, at his books does engage. 

C losely applying himself he goes through 

H is course at West Point, which he loves to pursue. 

Asa horseman distinguished — none more so there, 

'M id the various duties all have to share. 

P laced as Second Lieutenant, Fourth Infantry, he 

I s in Jefferson Barracks, in Missouri, we see, 

O n the frontier he's placed o'er Indians keeps guard, 

N ot much chance for ambition, dull enough, this is hard. 

O n Mexican soil a war must be fought, 

F or this campaign young Grant and his soldiers are brought. 



ULYSSES S. GRANT. 101 

T ransferred to the seventh regiment, he goes, 

H as distinguished himself ere hostilities close. 

E vinced a rare prowess throughout this whole war ; 

G rant bore his part " nobly " to do and to dare. 
R outed, at length, the Mexicans yield, 
E very soldier returns from the grim gory field, 
A nd now Grant is married — has nothing to do 
T hinks to milit'ry life to bid an adieu. 

R eturns to the life of a farmer, then tanner, 

E ngagements, than war, considerably calmer ; 

B ut impatient of these — when the country's once more 

E mbroiled in fierce strife — the nation all o'er; 

L ike a soldier and patriot Grant's seen once more, 

L ion-like standing firm at the head of his corps, 

I n his heart there's a lesson for treason in store ; 

O ver barriers small, over barriers great, 

N ow till he'll be victorious not long we shall wait. 

Assisted by Governor Yates he sets out. 
Organizes his troops with a heart brave and stout. 
To Springfield he goes and colonel is made 
Serves under McClellan — firm general and staid. 
Made Brigadier General — Cairo headquarters makes. 
At the battle of Belmont his first laurels takes. 
Fort Donelson next he captures in pride, 
And to hold it secure, strong defenses provides, 



102 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Thus forward from victory to victory he goes 

Desolation and ruin to bring to his foes ; 

Of malice and envy he the victim is made 

By num'rous aspirants — but Grant's undismayed ; 

Defeats their attempts to blacken his name, 

And bedim the bright lustre of his glory and fame. 

And at last o'er them all see him proudly arise 

Like an orb full of glory ascending the skies. 

By Congress for him a medal is struck 

And soon he is sent for, to Washington up ; 

And covered with laurels with pride we now see 

Grant commissioned Lieutenant General to be. 

He corrects the erroneous plans of the war 

A new system adopts which is better by far 

To crush out rebellion and draw to a close 

This horrible war with its terrible woes. 

Both Nashville and Vicksburg he forced to surrender, 

For Grant like Napoleon has led on in splendor 

The glorious legions of the noblest of freemen 

Who follow their leader — how wond'rous to see them, 

Through valleys of death and o'er hills sweeping over 

With tempests of hail storms of bullets and powder, 

Beauregard feels in danger, and General Lee 

Now at last seems the true situation to see. 

Grant's campaign arranged — he scans the whole field 

Which ere long will the glory of victory yield. 



ULYSSES S. GRANT. 103 

The Grand Army Potomac is ready to go 

And soon it will move o'er the plains spread below. 

The Rapidan crossed — the slaughter began 

In history unparalleled since time began. 

This army so vast through the wilderness moves 

The slaughter of men, to tell, we refuse. 

As legions of men on both sides Avere slain 

As these legions marched forth and died on the plain. 

The army of Lee was numerous and brave. 

And many a legion found a wilderness grave. 

Blood flowed like rivers and no one could tell 

Whether Grant would succeed or be driven to hell. 

The thought is appalling — we shudder to think. 

From the fields of this carnage in horror we shrink. 

Sherman and Sheridan do their part well 

And Grant by their aid soon the story will tell. 

" Forward to Richmond " the general cries, 

Torpedoes and ramparts and Lee he defies. 

Richmond is taken, the rebels run mad, 

While the lovers of nation and freedom are glad. 

Treason is spent — surrender must Lee, 

Once more there is peace for the " Land of the Free." 

The general and army now homeward in peace, 
From the battle-fi^ld come — a happy release — 
To be welcomed and honored by all in the land. 
Who, their country to save had taken their stand 



104 PEN PORTRAITS. 

Shoulder to shoulder, 'mid battle and storm, 

Who their lives and their all for their country had sworn. 

As a fitting reward for his bravery and skill, 

For his service to country — the sovereign will 

Of this Mighty Republic, this Great General have placed 

Two terms in the President's chair — with good taste. 

Thus briefly our President's lives we have traced, 
The principal features of all have embraced. 
And of whom and of what their successors shall be 
We must patiently wait in the future to see. 

To Americans all, man, woman and child, 
Statesmen, merchants, mechanics, and maidens so mild, 
Stand by your country, her flag and her all. 
And swear by your altars she never shall fall. 

Our motto " still higher " " Excelsior " be— 
For ours is the Land of the Brave and the Free. 



FINIS 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




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